An Analysis of Derivational Affixation and Inflectional Affixation Process in Song Lyric “Unstoppable” By Sia

Abstract

Language plays an important role in human communication, and understanding word formation helps explain meaning in texts. Affixation, including derivational and inflectional processes, is a key aspect of morphology, but studies analyzing affixation in song lyrics remain limited, even though songs carry expressive messages and are widely accessible. This study aims to identify and describe the types of derivational and inflectional affixation in the lyrics of Sia’s song Unstoppable and to analyze how these affixations contribute to word formation and meaning. Using a descriptive qualitative method, the researcher analyzed the lyrics and classified words containing derivational and inflectional affixation. The findings show that 12 words contain affixes, with inflectional affixation being more dominant as it retains the original word class, while derivational affixation changes word classes and enhances meaning. In conclusion, inflectional affixation is more frequent, but derivational affixation plays an important role in shaping expressive meaning. These results suggest that analyzing affixation in song lyrics provides valuable insights for linguistics, language teaching, vocabulary development, and text analysis, demonstrating the practical application of morphological study in real-world texts.