Background of the Study
Morphosyntactic patterns—the interplay between word formation and sentence structure—are undergoing rapid transformation in digital communication. In Nigeria, platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp provide distinct contexts that foster unique morphosyntactic innovations. Facebook posts, characterized by longer, more reflective discourse, tend to incorporate complex sentence structures and creative deviations from standard grammar, while WhatsApp messages, given their immediacy and informality, often display abbreviated and fragmented syntax (Olu, 2023). These variations are influenced by platform constraints, audience expectations, and the informal nature of digital interaction. This study aims to compare morphosyntactic patterns across these platforms, exploring how digital affordances drive linguistic creativity and reshape traditional grammar. By analyzing user-generated content from both Facebook and WhatsApp, the research will document emerging trends in language adaptation and assess their implications for broader Nigerian digital discourse, contributing to our understanding of language evolution in the era of social media (Ibrahim, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Although Nigerian digital discourse exhibits clear morphosyntactic variation, there is limited comparative research on how different platforms—Facebook and WhatsApp—affect these patterns. Existing studies tend to focus on one platform, neglecting the influence of distinct communicative contexts on grammar and word formation. This gap restricts our understanding of the interplay between digital affordances and linguistic innovation, hindering the development of comprehensive models that capture the evolving nature of online language. Addressing this issue is essential for understanding how social media reshapes morphosyntactic norms and for informing language policy and educational strategies in Nigeria (Chukwu, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
To compare morphosyntactic patterns in Nigerian Facebook posts and WhatsApp messages.
To analyze the influence of digital affordances on these patterns.
To evaluate the impact on traditional language structures.
Research Questions
What morphosyntactic features differentiate Facebook and WhatsApp discourse?
How do platform constraints influence language structure?
What are the implications for Nigerian language evolution?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a comparative analysis of morphosyntactic patterns in Nigerian online discourse, enhancing our understanding of digital language evolution. The findings will inform sociolinguistic theory and practical communication strategies, contributing valuable insights to educators and policymakers (Ibrahim, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
Limited to Nigerian Facebook and WhatsApp content.
Definitions of Terms
Morphosyntax: The combination of morphological and syntactic structures in language.
Facebook: A platform for extended textual communication.
WhatsApp: A messaging app characterized by informal, immediate interactions.
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