Background of the study
Hashtag‑based neologisms have emerged as a prominent feature of Nigerian digital discourse on Twitter. Users create new lexical items by repurposing hashtags to encapsulate evolving cultural, social, and political ideas (Ibrahim, 2023). These neologisms, formed through processes such as blending, clipping, and affixation, spread rapidly across networks and influence everyday language. This study examines hashtag‑based neologisms by analyzing trending Twitter hashtags among Nigerian users. It investigates the processes of lexical innovation and the sociocultural factors that drive the creation and adoption of new words. By focusing on specific hashtag movements, the research aims to document how digital communication fosters rapid language change and challenges traditional vocabulary. The study contributes to digital lexicology by providing empirical evidence of how online platforms transform language (Okafor, 2024).
Statement of the problem
Although hashtag‑based neologisms are pervasive in Nigerian Twitter discourse, there is limited research on the linguistic mechanisms that underpin their formation and normalization. Existing studies often emphasize the social impact of hashtags while neglecting detailed linguistic analysis, leaving a gap in our understanding of digital lexical innovation (Chukwu, 2023).
Objectives of the study
Research questions
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it provides insights into the mechanisms of digital lexical innovation in Nigeria. The findings will inform theories of language change and digital communication, aiding educators and policymakers in adapting to evolving linguistic landscapes (Ibrahim, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study
Limited to analyzing hashtag‑based neologisms on Nigerian Twitter; other platforms and offline contexts are excluded.
Definitions of terms
• Neologisms: Newly coined words or expressions.
• Hashtag Trends: Popular hashtags reflecting current cultural phenomena.
• Lexical Innovation: The process of creating new vocabulary.
Chapter One: Introduction
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