Background of the Study
Viral social media trends have a profound influence on language, particularly in how word forms and morphological structures evolve. This study examines how viral trends on Twitter and Instagram affect morphological innovation in Nigerian digital discourse. Nigerian users engage with trending topics by creating new words, abbreviations, and hybrid forms that reflect cultural creativity and social dynamics (Ibrahim, 2023). Twitter’s rapid-fire communication and Instagram’s visual narratives encourage the development of informal and dynamic language forms. The study investigates how these platforms foster morphological changes, including re-spelling, word blending, and the creation of neologisms. By comparing these trends across both platforms, the research highlights the interplay between digital media affordances and linguistic innovation. The findings aim to provide insights into how viral trends serve as catalysts for language change, reflecting broader societal shifts and the adaptive nature of Nigerian language practices (Okafor, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
While viral trends on social media are visibly reshaping language, there is a paucity of research specifically addressing their impact on morphology in Nigeria. The differences in how Twitter and Instagram contribute to morphological innovation remain underexplored, leading to gaps in understanding the digital influences on language structure. This study aims to address these issues by conducting a comparative analysis of morphological changes induced by viral trends, thereby filling an important research gap (Akinola, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
To analyze morphological innovations triggered by viral social media trends on Twitter and Instagram.
To compare the influence of these platforms on word formation processes.
To assess the cultural and social factors driving morphological changes in Nigerian digital discourse.
Research Questions
What morphological innovations emerge from viral trends on Twitter and Instagram?
How do these platforms differ in influencing word formation?
What cultural factors contribute to these morphological changes?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it examines the impact of viral social media trends on morphological innovation in Nigerian language. The research provides valuable insights into how digital media fosters linguistic creativity and contributes to language evolution, with implications for linguists, educators, and cultural theorists (Chukwu, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to analyzing morphological changes induced by viral trends on Nigerian Twitter and Instagram. It does not include other social media platforms or offline linguistic phenomena.
Definitions of Terms
Morphology: The study of word formation and structure in language.
Viral Trends: Rapidly spreading topics or challenges on social media.
Neologism: A newly coined word or expression.
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