Background of the study
Digital language practices have taken on new dimensions with the advent of TikTok, a platform where audio memes have gained substantial popularity. In Nigeria, TikTok audio memes serve as a unique medium for phonetic experimentation and expression. These audio clips often incorporate non-standard pronunciations, intonational variations, and creative sound manipulations that challenge conventional phonetic norms (Chukwudi, 2023). Recent research suggests that such digital practices not only reflect cultural trends but also actively contribute to phonetic innovation, influencing how users articulate sounds and rhythms in everyday communication (Ifeanyi, 2024). The interactive nature of TikTok allows for rapid dissemination and adaptation of audio memes, fostering a dynamic linguistic environment where phonetic boundaries are continuously renegotiated. Scholars have observed that these practices provide valuable insights into the evolving nature of spoken language, as traditional phonetic rules are reinterpreted in digital contexts (Akinyemi, 2023). This study intends to evaluate the impact of TikTok audio memes on Nigerian phonetics, offering a case study that highlights the transformative potential of digital language practices. It seeks to provide a comprehensive analysis of the phonetic changes emerging from TikTok, thereby contributing to broader discussions on language evolution (Umar, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the growing popularity of TikTok audio memes, there is limited research on their influence on Nigerian phonetics. Current studies often overlook the specific phonetic modifications driven by digital audio content, focusing instead on broader aspects of digital communication (Nwachukwu, 2023). This gap in the literature hinders a full understanding of how innovative audio practices alter pronunciation, intonation, and overall speech patterns in Nigerian contexts. Moreover, the rapid evolution of TikTok trends challenges conventional phonetic analysis, necessitating new frameworks to capture these changes (Chima, 2024). Therefore, this study seeks to address the lack of focused inquiry by evaluating the phonetic impact of TikTok audio memes among Nigerian users, offering insights that are critical for both theoretical exploration and practical language policy development.
Objectives of the study
1. To evaluate the impact of TikTok audio memes on Nigerian phonetics.
2. To analyze specific phonetic changes introduced by digital audio content.
3. To propose theoretical models for understanding phonetic innovation in digital media.
Research questions
1. How do TikTok audio memes influence phonetic practices among Nigerian users?
2. What specific phonetic modifications are evident in TikTok audio memes?
3. How can these changes be incorporated into existing phonetic frameworks?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it examines the influence of TikTok audio memes on Nigerian phonetics, a previously underexplored area of digital language practices. By analyzing the phonetic modifications resulting from audio memes, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of how digital media drives language evolution. The findings will inform academic discussions and practical applications in phonetic studies and language policy. Furthermore, the study provides a framework for future research on digital phonetic innovations, enriching both theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches (Balogun, 2023; Eze, 2024). This research expands theoretical knowledge and applications.
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to evaluating TikTok audio memes and their impact on Nigerian phonetics. It focuses solely on audio-based digital content on TikTok, excluding other forms of media and offline speech practices.
Definitions of terms
• TikTok Audio Memes: Short audio clips on TikTok that use creative sound alterations to convey humor or cultural commentary.
• Phonetics: The study of the sounds of human speech.
• Digital Language Practices: The innovative ways in which language is used and transformed in online environments.
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