An Assessment of Morphosyntactic Patterns in Nigerian Social Media Discourse: A Case Study of WhatsApp Chats
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the study
Morphosyntactic patterns—the interplay between word formation and sentence structure—are evolving rapidly in Nigerian digital discourse. WhatsApp, as a popular messaging platform, has become a critical site for observing these changes. In WhatsApp chats, users often engage in informal language practices that include creative word formations, abbreviated syntax, and the incorporation of emoticons and code switching, resulting in distinctive morphosyntactic constructions (Ibrahim, 2023). These changes are influenced by the platform’s real time, private communication context, which encourages spontaneity and linguistic experimentation. The convergence of traditional language use with innovative digital practices has led to the emergence of hybrid structures that challenge conventional grammatical norms (Adeola, 2023). This case study aims to analyze the morphosyntactic patterns in Nigerian WhatsApp chats to better understand how digital environments shape language evolution and influence communication practices in everyday interactions (Obi, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Despite the rapid evolution of language on messaging platforms, there is limited research focusing on the morphosyntactic patterns in Nigerian WhatsApp chats. Current studies tend to examine broader digital language trends without delving into the specific grammatical constructions unique to WhatsApp. This gap limits our understanding of how informal digital communication drives changes in word formation and sentence structure, hindering the development of targeted linguistic models for online discourse (Chinwe, 2023). Educators and language planners require detailed insights into these patterns to adapt curricula and communication strategies to contemporary digital practices (Ibrahim, 2024).
Objectives of the study
1. To analyze the morphosyntactic patterns in Nigerian WhatsApp chats.
2. To identify deviations from traditional syntactic norms.
3. To develop models explaining digital morphosyntactic change.
Research questions
1. What morphosyntactic patterns are evident in WhatsApp chats?
2. How do these patterns differ from conventional language use?
3. What factors drive these changes in digital discourse?
Significance of the study
This study is significant as it examines morphosyntactic patterns in Nigerian WhatsApp chats, contributing to our understanding of digital language evolution. The findings will enhance theoretical models and inform practical strategies for educators and policymakers in adapting to modern communication trends (Ibrahim, 2023; Obi, 2025).
Scope and limitations of the study
The study is limited to analyzing WhatsApp chat data among Nigerian users, excluding other social media platforms and offline interactions.
Definitions of terms
• Morphosyntax: The interaction of morphological and syntactic structures in language.
• WhatsApp Chats: Text-based conversations conducted on the WhatsApp platform.
• Digital Discourse: Communication practices that occur in online environments.
Related Project Materials
An assessment of farmer training initiatives on credit management in rural areas: a case study of Guaranty Trust Bank
Background of the Study
Farmer training initiatives are critical for enhancing credit management skills among rural agricultural borrower...
Impact of Radio Broadcasting on the Eradication of Open Defecation: A Study of Damaturu Local Government Area, Yobe State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Open defecation is a significant public health issue in many parts of Nig...
An Evaluation of the Use of Storytelling in Teaching Patient Care to Nursing Students in Ogun State College of Nursing and Midwifery
Background of the Study
Storytelling has been a fundamental method of teaching and knowledge transfer f...
THE ROLE OF FUND ACCOUNTANTS IN FUND ADMINISTRATION
Abstract: THE ROLE OF FUND ACCOUNTANTS IN FUND ADMINISTRATION
This study aims to: (1) evaluate the role of fund accountants in fund admin...
An Assessment of Software Automation and Its Effect on Business Efficiency: A Study of Logistics Firms in Nasarawa State
Background of the Study
Software automation refers to the use of technology to perform repetitive tasks, streamline work...
An Evaluation of Local Government Elections and Voter Participation: A Case Study of Yola South LGA, Adamawa State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Local government elections are a cornerstone of Nigeria's democratic...
FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL AND THE NIGERIAN ECONOMY (A CASE STUDY OF ABAKILIKI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, EBONYI STATE)
ABSTRACT
When the researcher chose this topic “fuel subsidy removal and Nigerian economy”-she was inspired on how Nigerians r...
THE USE OF INSTAGRAM FOR HAIR EXTENSION SALES BY PORT HARCOURT VENDORS: VISIBILITY AND FEEDBACK. A CASE STUDY OF HAIRS_BY_ OLIVE IN PORT HARCOURT
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
It's no secret that social media has taken over many parts of modern...
The effect of informal transportation systems on urban mobility in Ibadan South-West Local Government Area, Oyo State
Background of the Study
Informal transportation systems have become an integral component of urban mobility in many develop...
An investigation of discourse markers in Igbo language during public speeches in Enugu
Background of the Study
Discourse markers are integral to the structure and coherence of public speeches, serving as lingu...
