Which of the following statements best describes language as a rule-governed…
2026
Which of the following statements best describes language as a rule-governed system?
Answer: D. Language operates through systematic structures and patterns. — ConceptA rule-governed system has units that combine according to recurring principles rather than by chance. In language, sound patterns, word formation,…
- A.
Language is acquired solely through imitation and repetition.
- B.
Language is a random collection of words and phrases without organization.
- C.
Language changes without any recurring principles.
- D.
Language operates through systematic structures and patterns.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Concept
A rule-governed system has units that combine according to recurring principles rather than by chance.
In language, sound patterns, word formation, sentence structure, and meaning are organized by such principles.
Application
The statement about systematic structures and patterns describes language as an organized system in which linguistic units combine in regular ways.
Contrast
Imitation and repetition can contribute to learning, but an imitation-only account cannot explain how speakers produce and understand new sentences.
A random collection of words and phrases lacks the organizing relations needed to form grammatical expressions.
Language changes over time, but sound shifts, grammatical changes, and usage changes can show recurring regularities.
Result
Therefore, language operating through systematic structures and patterns is the best description of a rule-governed system.