Background of the Study
Digital discourse has reshaped the landscape of language, with platforms such as YouTube providing a rich corpus for examining phonological variations in everyday communication. Nigerian YouTube comments reveal distinct phonological phenomena influenced by digital literacy, audience engagement, and informal writing styles. This study evaluates how these digital interactions foster phonological changes such as non-standard spellings, phonetic abbreviations, and creative representations of sounds. As users interact in the comment sections, their linguistic choices reflect broader social trends and the interplay between spoken and written language (Emeka, 2023). The immediacy and interactivity of YouTube comments contribute to the rapid dissemination of novel phonological forms. This research highlights the role of digital media in not only preserving linguistic traditions but also in facilitating innovative phonological adaptations, thereby bridging the gap between formal phonology and everyday digital communication (Ifeanyi, 2024). By investigating these patterns, the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how digital discourse influences phonological practices in Nigerian online communities (Ndukwe, 2023).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the prevalence of digital discourse on platforms like YouTube, there is a lack of systematic research on its impact on Nigerian phonology. Early observations suggest that YouTube comments exhibit unique phonological characteristics, yet the mechanisms and implications of these variations remain inadequately explored. Traditional phonological models do not fully account for the informal, creative practices evident in digital communication. This study seeks to address the gap by providing a detailed analysis of phonological changes as observed in YouTube comments, thereby offering insights into how digital interactions reshape sound patterns and phonetic representations in Nigerian English (Obi, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
To analyze phonological patterns in Nigerian YouTube comments.
To identify digital influences on non-standard phonetic representations.
To integrate digital discourse findings into existing phonological frameworks.
Research Questions:
What phonological variations are observable in Nigerian YouTube comments?
How do digital communication practices influence these variations?
What implications do these changes have for traditional phonological theory?
Significance of the Study
This study contributes to digital linguistics by evaluating how online discourse on YouTube influences phonology in Nigerian English. Its findings will help bridge the gap between traditional phonological models and contemporary digital communication, benefiting linguists, educators, and media analysts. The research provides a novel perspective on the role of digital platforms in shaping spoken language features (Emeka, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
Limited to the topic only.
Definitions of Terms:
Digital Discourse: Communication conducted through digital platforms.
Phonology: The study of the sound systems of languages.
YouTube Comments: User-generated textual responses on YouTube videos.
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