An assessment of the role of compounding in the development of Nigerian Pidgin vocabulary

An assessment of the role of compounding in the development of Nigerian Pidgin vocabulary

Background of the study
Compounding, the process of combining two or more words to create new lexical items, is a prominent word-formation strategy in Nigerian Pidgin. This study assesses how compounding contributes to the development and evolution of vocabulary in Nigerian Pidgin, a language characterized by its flexibility and adaptability. In Nigerian Pidgin, compounds are often used to express complex ideas and cultural nuances, reflecting both indigenous influences and colonial legacies (Okoro, 2023). The dynamic nature of compounding in this creole language allows speakers to generate novel expressions that resonate with contemporary social realities. Studies have shown that compounding not only enriches vocabulary but also aids in the communication of intricate concepts in a simplified manner (Chima, 2024). In urban settings where Nigerian Pidgin is widely used, compounding serves as an essential tool for linguistic creativity and identity formation. This investigation employs corpus analysis and field interviews to document the patterns, frequency, and semantic transparency of compounds. The study further examines the impact of digital media and urbanization on compounding processes, revealing how modern influences interact with traditional word-formation mechanisms (Ibrahim, 2025).

Statement of the problem
Despite the recognized importance of compounding in Nigerian Pidgin, there is limited systematic research on its role in vocabulary development. Anecdotal evidence suggests that compounds are evolving rapidly, yet detailed empirical analysis is lacking (Okoro, 2023). The absence of comprehensive data on compound formation hampers efforts to understand the underlying mechanisms driving lexical innovation in Nigerian Pidgin. Moreover, modern influences such as social media and urban migration may be altering traditional compounding patterns, creating challenges for language standardization (Chima, 2024). This research seeks to address these gaps by providing an in-depth analysis of compound formation and its contribution to vocabulary growth, thereby informing language teaching and policy development (Ibrahim, 2025).

Objectives of the study:

1. To document compounding patterns in Nigerian Pidgin vocabulary development.

2. To analyze the semantic and structural characteristics of compounds.

3. To evaluate the impact of modern influences on traditional compounding practices.

Research questions:

1. What compounding strategies are most prevalent in Nigerian Pidgin?

2. How do compounds contribute to lexical innovation?

3. What external factors influence compound formation?

Research Hypotheses:

1. Compounding is a significant contributor to vocabulary expansion in Nigerian Pidgin.

2. Modern media influences lead to observable changes in compounding patterns.

3. Compounding strategies differ between traditional and contemporary usage.

Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it provides critical insights into the role of compounding in enriching Nigerian Pidgin vocabulary. The findings will support educators, linguists, and media practitioners in developing strategies that preserve linguistic creativity while accommodating modern influences (Okoro, 2023; Ibrahim, 2025).

Scope and limitations of the study:
The study is limited to assessing the role of compounding in Nigerian Pidgin vocabulary development. It focuses exclusively on morphological aspects within the language.

Definitions of terms:

1. Compounding: The process of combining two or more words to form a new lexical unit.

2. Vocabulary Development: The process of acquiring and expanding one’s lexicon.

3. Nigerian Pidgin: A creole language widely spoken in Nigeria, characterized by its mixed linguistic heritage.