Digital Language Use: Investigating the Impact of Lexical Innovation among Nigerian University Students
Abstract
This study examines digital language use among Nigerian university students with the focus mainly on how lexical innovation such as neologisms, slang, code-switching and code-mixing shape the students’ language use and academic practices. The rise of different digital platforms has greatly influenced Nigerian university students’ language use by increasing their linguistic creativity through various lexical forms which are not limited to the lexical innovation mentioned earlier. The data analysis is done by adopting Heider’s (1958) situational sociolinguistic model known as Attribution Theory (AT) which is combined with Booij’s (2010) Construction Morphology. Booij’s theory explains how neologisms are formed while collaboratively Heider’s model explores how the new words are assigned meaning in context. This study reveals that lexical innovation enhances creativity and constructs cultural identity. However, it may be a hindrance to the students’ attainment of high level of proficiency in their academic and formal language use.
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