The linguistic attitude that insists on consistent spelling, adherence to…
2026
The linguistic attitude that insists on consistent spelling, adherence to predetermined rules, and precise usage is known as:
Answer: D. Prescriptive — ConceptA linguistic attitude is a way of evaluating how language ought to be used or how it is actually used. A prescriptive approach sets norms for spelling,…
- A.
Functional
- B.
Contextual
- C.
Interpretive
- D.
Prescriptive
Attempted by 25 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Concept
A linguistic attitude is a way of evaluating how language ought to be used or how it is actually used.
A prescriptive approach sets norms for spelling, grammar, and usage, then evaluates forms against those predetermined rules. It differs from a descriptive approach, which records how speakers actually use language.
Application
The stem emphasizes consistency in spelling, obedience to fixed rules, and precision in usage. These are norm-setting demands, so the attitude described is prescriptive.
Contrast
Functional focuses on the communicative or social purposes served by language forms.
Contextual explains meaning or usage through the surrounding linguistic or situational context.
Interpretive centers on explaining or construing meaning rather than enforcing a fixed usage code.
Cross-check
Replacing the clue with “how language should be written or used” preserves the meaning of the stem; that wording directly identifies a prescriptive attitude. Therefore, the answer is Prescriptive.