Background of the study
Digital media has significantly influenced phonetic expression, and in Nigeria, TikTok has emerged as a prominent platform where audio clips showcase diverse phonetic variations. Users on TikTok experiment with pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm, often modifying traditional speech patterns to create entertaining and engaging content (Ibrahim, 2023). These audio clips not only reflect individual creativity but also contribute to a broader trend of digital phonetic innovation, where new norms of articulation and sound patterns are rapidly established. This study examines the phonetic variations evident in Nigerian TikTok audio clips and compares these with more traditional speech patterns. The research explores how digital affordances—such as audio filters, editing tools, and performance techniques—influence the production of sound. It also investigates the socio-cultural factors driving these changes, including regional dialects, youth culture, and global digital trends (Okafor, 2024). By analyzing a representative sample of TikTok audio content, the study aims to document emerging phonetic trends and assess their implications for the evolution of Nigerian speech. The findings will provide insights into the interplay between digital technology and phonetic innovation, enriching the field of digital sociophonetics (Adebayo, 2023).
Statement of the problem
While TikTok audio clips have become a popular medium for creative phonetic expression in Nigeria, there is limited research on their impact on phonetic variation. Current studies often emphasize visual aspects of TikTok videos, neglecting the significant changes in speech sounds and pronunciation induced by digital performance (Chukwu, 2023). This research gap impedes our understanding of how technological tools alter phonetic norms and influence everyday speech patterns. Without focused analysis, the broader implications for traditional phonetics in Nigeria remain unclear, hindering the integration of digital trends into established linguistic models (Ibrahim, 2024).
Objectives of the study
Research questions
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it appraises online phonetic variation in Nigerian social media, focusing on TikTok audio clips. The insights will benefit linguists, educators, and media scholars by demonstrating how digital tools drive phonetic innovation and influence language evolution in contemporary society (Ibrahim, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is confined to analyzing TikTok audio clips among Nigerian users, focusing exclusively on phonetic variations. It does not extend to other platforms or offline speech practices, ensuring a concentrated analysis of the phenomenon.
Definitions of terms
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
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