With respect to language, phonemes:
A)are the smallest units of language that carry meaning
B)are the same as a language's alphabet
C)provide the underlying meaning in a spoken sentence
D)are the smallest significant sound units in spoken language

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Phonemes are the smallest significant sound units in spoken language. They are not the same as a language's alphabet, which consists of written characters, nor do they provide the underlying meaning in a spoken sentence, which is determined by syntax and semantics. While phonemes contribute to the overall meaning of a word, they do not carry meaning on their own.

With Respect to Language, Phonemes