The Impact of Language Borrowing on Nigerian Phonology: A Study of Loanwords in Nigerian English
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the study
Language borrowing is a common phenomenon in multilingual societies, and Nigerian English is no exception. The integration of loanwords from indigenous languages, as well as global tongues such as Arabic, Portuguese, and French, has significantly influenced the phonological system of Nigerian English. This study investigates the impact of language borrowing on Nigerian phonology by analyzing the pronunciation and adaptation of loanwords. It examines how borrowed terms undergo phonetic adjustments—such as vowel shifts, consonant substitutions, and prosodic modifications—to conform to the phonological rules of Nigerian English. The research utilizes a corpus of loanwords drawn from media, education, and everyday conversation to identify patterns of phonological change. Additionally, it considers the sociolinguistic factors that drive borrowing and phonological adaptation, including prestige, globalization, and cultural identity. This inquiry not only contributes to theoretical understandings of language contact and change but also informs language teaching practices and policy development regarding linguistic diversity (Ogunleye, 2023; Ibrahim, 2024; Suleiman, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Although language borrowing significantly influences Nigerian English, there is limited systematic research on the phonological adaptation of loanwords. Inconsistent pronunciation of borrowed words can lead to confusion and communication breakdowns. This lack of empirical data hampers efforts to develop accurate phonological models and effective language teaching strategies that accommodate linguistic diversity (Ogunleye, 2023).
Objectives of the study:
• To document phonological changes in loanwords within Nigerian English.
• To analyze the adaptation processes of borrowed terms.
• To recommend guidelines for language education and policy.
Research questions:
• How are loanwords phonologically adapted in Nigerian English?
• What patterns emerge in the pronunciation of borrowed words?
• What implications do these adaptations have for language teaching?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it explores how language borrowing shapes the phonology of Nigerian English, providing insights critical for educators, linguists, and policymakers in managing linguistic diversity and enhancing communication clarity (Suleiman, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study:
The study focuses solely on loanwords in Nigerian English and their phonological adaptations, excluding other linguistic aspects.
Definitions of terms:
• Language Borrowing: The process of adopting words from one language into another.
• Loanwords: Words borrowed from a foreign language.
• Phonology: The study of the sound systems of languages.
Related Project Materials
THE USE OF COMPUTER IN THE ASSESSMENT OF STUDENTS LEARNING
ABSTRACT
The broad objective of this study is to examine the use of computer in the assessment of students learning usin...
THE IMPACT OF INTEREST RATE ON HOUSING FINANCE IN NIGERIA
ABSTRACT
Housing remains to be a critical and essential sector for nearly all economie...
An Investigation of Digital Language Evolution in Nigerian Social Media: A Case Study of Facebook Group Discussions
Background of the study
Digital language evolution is increasingly evident in Nigerian social media, parti...
The Influence of Financial Mismanagement on Educational Outcomes in Rural Secondary Schools in Katsina State
Background of the Study
Financial mismanagement in education can have far-reaching eff...
An investigation of the impact of educational language policies on Igbo language usage in Enugu
Background of the Study
Educational language policies are pivotal in shaping linguistic practices within academic environm...
COVID-19 AND VIRTUAL LEARNING ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS
ABSTRACT
This study examined the covid-19 and Virtual Learning on the academic performance of students...
The impact of political violence on women’s participation in elections in Yola South Local Government Area, Adamawa State
Background of the Study
Political violence is a pervasive issue in many parts of Nigeria, particularly during election peri...
A Study on the Effect of Radio Broadcasts on Nigerian Phonological Awareness: A Case Study of Hausa Language Programming
Background of the study
Radio broadcasts remain a vital medium for information dissemination in Nigeria, particularly in regions where li...
INNOVATIONS IN DIGITAL ASSESSMENT TOOLS FOR VOCATIONAL COMPETENCIES
ABSTRACT: Innovations in Digital Assessment Tools for Vocational Competencies investigates advancements in technology-driven assessment methods to...
ECONOMIC DEPENDENCY AND THIRD WORLD UNDER DEVELOPMENT; THE NIGERIA EXPERIENCE, (2000-2020)
Background of the Study
Economic dependency has long been a central theme in discussions surrounding the underdevelopmen...
