1.
Language is a system consisting of
Correct Answer
B. Sounds and symbols
Explanation
Language is a complex system that involves both sounds and symbols. Sounds refer to the spoken aspect of language, where different combinations of sounds create words and convey meaning. Symbols, on the other hand, represent the written aspect of language, where written characters or signs are used to represent words, sounds, or concepts. Together, sounds and symbols form the foundation of language, allowing communication and expression of ideas and thoughts.
2.
Words are _____ for the ideas they represent.
Correct Answer
D. Symbols
Explanation
Symbols are used to represent ideas. They are a form of communication that allows us to convey meaning and understanding. Words are a specific type of symbol, representing ideas through language. By using words as symbols, we can express our thoughts, emotions, and concepts to others. This makes symbols an essential tool for human communication and expression.
3.
The subsystem of language dealing with sounds is...
Correct Answer
B. pHonology
Explanation
Phonology is the correct answer because it refers to the subsystem of language that deals with sounds. It focuses on the organization and patterns of sounds in a particular language, including the way sounds are combined and how they can change in different contexts. Phonology is concerned with the study of phonemes, which are the smallest units of sound that can distinguish meaning in a language. It also explores phonological rules and processes that govern the pronunciation of sounds in a language.
4.
Children learn and use specific words before they learn and use
Correct Answer
A. Abstract words
Explanation
Children typically learn and use concrete words before they learn and use abstract words. Concrete words refer to objects or things that can be perceived through the senses, such as "dog" or "ball." Abstract words, on the other hand, refer to concepts or ideas that cannot be directly perceived, such as "love" or "justice." This is because concrete words are more tangible and easier for young children to understand and grasp, while abstract words require a higher level of cognitive development and language skills. Therefore, it is expected that children would learn and use abstract words later in their language development.
5.
The connotation of a word refers to ______.
Correct Answer
A. Feelings and associations aroused by the word
Explanation
The connotation of a word refers to the feelings and associations that are evoked or triggered by the word. It goes beyond the literal or dictionary definition of the word and includes the emotional and cultural associations that people have with it. Connotation can be positive, negative, or neutral, and it plays a significant role in how language is perceived and understood.
6.
Written and oral communication differ in both the length of a typical sentence and in the use of slang.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Written and oral communication differ in both the length of a typical sentence and in the use of slang. This statement is true because written communication tends to have longer and more complex sentences compared to oral communication, which is often more concise and informal. Additionally, written communication usually avoids the use of slang, while oral communication may incorporate slang depending on the context and audience.
7.
Because words reflect the society's communication needs at that time, language is rigid.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Language is not rigid because words are not fixed entities. They evolve and change over time to adapt to the changing communication needs of society. New words are constantly being created, and the meanings of existing words can shift. Language is a dynamic and flexible system that allows for creativity and adaptation. Therefore, the given statement is false.
8.
To say that language is conventional means that the meanings of words...
Correct Answer
D. Have been accepted by a large number of people
Explanation
Language being conventional means that the meanings of words have been accepted by a large number of people. This implies that language is not arbitrary and is based on a consensus among speakers. It also suggests that the meanings of words are not fixed or inherent, but rather determined by social agreement. The conventional nature of language allows for effective communication and understanding between individuals within a particular linguistic community.
9.
Most people have a speaking vocabulary that is ______ their reading vocabulary.
Correct Answer
C. Less than
Explanation
"Most people have a speaking vocabulary that is less than their reading vocabulary" means that the number of words a person can understand and use in their spoken language is smaller than the number of words they can comprehend while reading. This implies that individuals typically have a wider range of words in their reading vocabulary compared to their speaking vocabulary.
10.
Written words are formed with letters of the alphabet; spoken words are formed with _____.
Correct Answer
B. Sounds of speech
Explanation
Spoken words are formed with sounds of speech. This is because when we speak, we produce different sounds using our vocal cords, mouth, and other speech organs. These sounds combine to form words, which are the basic units of spoken language. Therefore, the correct answer is "sounds of speech."
11.
The denotation of a word refers to _______.
Correct Answer
B. Only the dictionary definition of the word
Explanation
The denotation of a word refers to only the dictionary definition of the word. This means that it represents the literal or primary meaning of the word, without any emotional or subjective connotations. Denotation focuses on the objective and universally accepted meaning of a word, as found in dictionaries, rather than personal interpretations or associations.
12.
In our culture, language that follows established rules is called ______.
Correct Answer
D. Standard English
Explanation
Standard English refers to the language that follows established rules in our culture. It is the accepted and widely used form of English that is taught in schools and used in formal writing and communication. It is considered the standard or "correct" form of English in terms of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Dialect refers to a regional or social variation of language, jargon refers to specialized vocabulary used by a particular group, and nonstandard English refers to language that does not adhere to the established rules of standard English.
13.
Slang is generally appropriate in both formal and informal communication situations.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Slang is generally not appropriate in formal communication situations. Formal communication typically requires the use of standard language and professional tone, while slang is more commonly used in informal or casual settings. Using slang in formal situations can be seen as unprofessional and may hinder effective communication. Therefore, the statement that slang is generally appropriate in both formal and informal communication situations is false.
14.
A specialized sublanguage understood by members of a particular field is ____.
Correct Answer
B. Jargon
Explanation
A specialized sublanguage understood by members of a particular field is referred to as jargon. Jargon consists of specific terms, phrases, and expressions that are unique to a particular profession, industry, or group. It allows individuals within that field to communicate effectively and efficiently, using language that is precise and meaningful to them. Jargon helps to establish a sense of belonging and expertise among professionals and facilitates clear communication within their specific domain.
15.
The connotation of a word communicates feelings more than facts.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The connotation of a word refers to the emotional or cultural associations that it carries, beyond its literal meaning. This means that the connotation of a word can evoke certain feelings or attitudes in the reader or listener. Therefore, the statement that the connotation of a word communicates feelings more than facts is true. Connotations can vary depending on context and cultural background, and understanding them is important for effective communication.