An Investigation of Digital Neologisms in Nigerian Online Communication: A Study of Hashtag Co creation
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Background of the Study
Digital neologisms—new words and expressions emerging in online communication—have significantly transformed the Nigerian linguistic landscape. Hashtag co‑creation, wherein multiple users collaborate—either explicitly or implicitly—in generating new lexical items, is at the forefront of this phenomenon. In Nigerian online communities, hashtags serve as creative assemblages that capture evolving cultural narratives and social experiences. This study investigates the processes through which digital neologisms are created, focusing on hashtag co‑creation on social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram. Users often blend indigenous languages with English, resulting in hybrid forms that reflect both local identity and global digital culture. The research examines how social interactions, trends, and collective creativity contribute to the formation of these neologisms. Scholars argue that hashtag co‑creation not only fosters lexical innovation but also democratizes language change by involving diverse voices in the linguistic process (Okoro, 2024). This study situates digital neologisms within sociolinguistic and semiotic frameworks to uncover the dynamic interplay between technology, community, and language evolution in Nigeria (Adeniyi, 2023).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing prevalence of digital neologisms in Nigerian online communication, the specific dynamics of hashtag co‑creation remain underexplored. Existing research primarily focuses on individual neologisms without considering the collaborative processes that drive their creation. This gap limits our understanding of how collective digital practices contribute to lexical innovation. The study aims to address this deficiency by examining the mechanisms and socio-cultural influences behind hashtag co‑creation, thereby shedding light on how new words and expressions emerge and gain traction in Nigerian digital discourse (Chukwu, 2023).
Objectives of the Study:
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To investigate the process of hashtag co‑creation in Nigerian online communication.
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To analyze the morphological and semantic characteristics of digital neologisms.
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To assess the socio-cultural factors driving hashtag co‑creation.
Research Questions:
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How do users collaboratively create neologisms through hashtags?
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What linguistic features characterize these neologisms?
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What social factors influence hashtag co‑creation?
Significance of the Study
This study contributes to our understanding of collaborative language innovation in digital contexts. Its findings will inform theories of digital neologism formation and offer practical insights for linguists and digital media analysts (Adeniyi, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
Limited to hashtag co‑creation in Nigerian online communication.
Definitions of Terms:
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Digital Neologisms: Newly coined words emerging in digital contexts.
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Hashtag Co‑creation: Collaborative generation of lexical items through hashtags.
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Online Communication: Exchange of information through digital platforms.
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