Background of the Study
Online linguistic innovation is reshaping communication in Nigeria as digital platforms foster creative adaptations of language. Instagram and Twitter are at the forefront of this change. On Instagram, users combine visual imagery with concise captions to generate new lexical items and syntactic forms, while Twitter’s character limitations encourage rapid and inventive language use. This comparative study assesses the extent and nature of linguistic innovation on these platforms by analyzing neologisms, code‑switching, and creative punctuation. The research examines how digital affordances—such as image integration on Instagram and brevity on Twitter—drive the evolution of language. It further explores the role of cultural identity and social trends in influencing these innovations, situating the findings within broader theories of digital discourse and language change (Adeniyi, 2023; Okoro, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Although Nigerian digital platforms are known for linguistic innovation, there is limited comparative research on how different platforms drive language change. Current studies often focus on one platform in isolation, failing to capture the unique mechanisms of innovation on Instagram versus Twitter. This gap restricts our understanding of how digital affordances influence the emergence of new linguistic forms. The study aims to address this by comparing language practices on Instagram and Twitter, thereby revealing the diverse processes underpinning online linguistic creativity (Chukwu, 2023).
Objectives of the Study:
To compare linguistic innovations on Instagram and Twitter.
To identify platform-specific mechanisms driving language change.
To evaluate cultural influences on online linguistic creativity.
Research Questions:
What new linguistic forms emerge on Instagram and Twitter?
How do digital affordances affect language innovation?
What cultural factors contribute to these processes?
Significance of the Study
This study enhances our understanding of digital language evolution by comparing linguistic innovation across platforms. Its findings are significant for linguists and digital media experts, offering a comprehensive view of how online communication fosters creative language change in Nigeria (Adeniyi, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
Limited to Nigerian Instagram and Twitter posts.
Definitions of Terms:
Linguistic Innovation: The creation of new language forms.
Instagram: A visual social media platform.
Twitter: A microblogging platform.
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