Our basic argument is that grammaticalization in NP is not contact-induced but a language-internal phenomenon, which reveals that NP has both a synchronic and diachronic existence that are imperative in evolving its unique grammar. In this paper, we examine language-internal mechanisms that transform lexical items into morphosyntactic items either for semantic value, creativity, expressivity or routinization.

One of the consequences of this increased dynamism of NP is the development of lexical items into grammatical markers which is an expected natural process. Nigerian Pidgin (hereafter NP) has assumed elaborated roles and functions, gaining new grounds in different sociolinguistic domains as a result of its sustained social expansion process. Ikala, revista de lenguaje y cultura, 17(2), 167-179 How to reference this article: Mensah, E. Box 1412, Calabar Cross River State, Nigeris. * holds a Ph.D in Linguistics from University of Calabar, Nigeria where he is also an Assistant Professor in the Department of Linguistics and Communication Studies.

West african pidgin english grammar