Question

What is Ferdinand de Saussure's primary contribution to linguistics?

• A. Phonetics
• B. Structural Linguistics
• C. Syntax
• D. Pragmatics

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Structural Linguistics

Ferdinand de Saussure's primary contribution to linguistics is the foundation of "structural linguistics," where he viewed language as a system of signs with inherent relationships between them, most notably distinguishing between the abstract system of language ("langue") and individual speech acts ("parole") within that system; this concept is considered a cornerstone of modern linguistic analysis. 

Key points about Saussure's structural linguistics:

• Langue vs. Parole:

  The key distinction between the underlying system of language ("langue") and individual speech acts ("parole") is central to Saussure's theory. 

• Signifier and Signified:

  Saussure defined a linguistic sign as composed of a "signifier" (the sound or written form) and a "signified" (the concept it represents), highlighting the arbitrary nature of this connection. 

• Synchronic Analysis:

  Saussure emphasized the importance of analyzing language at a specific point in time ("synchronic") rather than focusing on historical changes ("diachronic"). 

• Structural Relationships:

  His theory emphasizes how the meaning of a linguistic unit is determined by its relationships with other units within the system.