Background of the Study
Viral hashtags on Twitter are increasingly recognized as catalysts for morphological innovation in digital language. In Nigeria, these hashtags—often emerging from political or cultural events—prompt users to coin new words and alter existing word forms to encapsulate contemporary sentiments (Adeniyi, 2023). The phenomenon of Twitter neologisms involves processes such as blending, abbreviation, and re‑spelling, which are amplified by the platform’s viral nature. Nigerian users creatively modify morphology to create succinct expressions that reflect the immediacy of online discourse. These innovative forms not only facilitate communication under character constraints but also contribute to a dynamic and evolving lexicon that reflects local identity and digital culture. This study investigates the influence of viral hashtags on word formation, examining how Twitter neologisms are generated and disseminated. It also considers the role of audience engagement and digital affordances in shaping these morphological changes, thereby highlighting the interplay between technology and linguistic creativity (Oluwaseun, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Despite the growing prevalence of Twitter neologisms in Nigerian digital discourse, there is limited research on how viral hashtags influence morphological change. The rapid creation and propagation of new word forms challenge traditional models of morphology, yet these dynamics remain underexplored. This gap limits our understanding of the processes that drive lexical innovation in the digital realm, hindering the development of comprehensive models for digital language evolution (Ibrahim, 2023).
Objectives of the Study
To identify and analyze Twitter neologisms in Nigerian discourse.
To explore the processes by which viral hashtags influence word formation.
To assess the broader impact of these morphological innovations on language.
Research Questions
What are the characteristics of Twitter neologisms in Nigeria?
How do viral hashtags drive morphological innovation?
What implications do these changes have for digital communication?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it elucidates the impact of viral hashtags on morphological innovation in Nigerian Twitter discourse. The findings will enhance our understanding of digital lexical evolution and inform theoretical models of language change in online environments, benefiting linguists and media scholars (Adeniyi, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
Limited to Nigerian Twitter neologisms.
Definitions of Terms
Neologisms: Newly coined words or expressions.
Hashtag: A keyword or phrase preceded by “#” used to index topics.
Morphology: The study of word structure and formation.
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