Which choice is associated with the use of gestures in speech?

Which choice is associated with the use of gestures in speech?

• A. Phonology
• B. Pragmatics
• C. Paralinguistic features
• D. Morphology

Answer: (C)

The correct choice focuses on paralinguistic features, which encompass non-verbal elements that accompany spoken language, including gestures, facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language. These features play a significant role in conveying meaning, emotion, and intent beyond the literal words spoken. For instance, gestures can reinforce a speaker's message, indicating enthusiasm or emphasizing a point. In contrast, phonology relates to the sound system of a language, such as phonemes and their patterns. Morphology involves the structure of words and how they are formed from morphemes, the smallest units of meaning. Pragmatics refers to language use in context, examining how meaning is constructed in social interactions, but does not specifically highlight the role of gestures as paralinguistic features do. Therefore, the focus on gestures aligns directly with the definition and significance of paralinguistic features within communication.

The correct choice focuses on paralinguistic features, which encompass non-verbal elements that accompany spoken language, including gestures, facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language. These features play a significant role in conveying meaning, emotion, and intent beyond the literal words spoken. For instance, gestures can reinforce a speaker's message, indicating enthusiasm or emphasizing a point.

In contrast, phonology relates to the sound system of a language, such as phonemes and their patterns. Morphology involves the structure of words and how they are formed from morphemes, the smallest units of meaning. Pragmatics refers to language use in context, examining how meaning is constructed in social interactions, but does not specifically highlight the role of gestures as paralinguistic features do. Therefore, the focus on gestures aligns directly with the definition and significance of paralinguistic features within communication.