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Set 3: Central Ideas (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: C

PASSAGE

The following text describes Semiotics. Semiotics is the study of signs and symbols and their use or interpretation. Ferdinand de Saussure divided the sign into two components: the 'signifier' (the sound pattern or written word) and the 'signified' (the concept it represents). He argued that the relationship between the signifier and the signified is arbitrary; there is no natural connection between the word 'tree' and the physical object. Thus, language is a system of differences where meaning is generated not by defining things in themselves, but by distinguishing them from what they are not.

What does Saussure mean by the 'arbitrariness' of the sign?

A. That words can mean whatever the speaker wants them to mean
B. That there is no inherent or natural link between the form of a word and its meaning
C. That language changes randomly over time without pattern✓ Correct
D. That symbols are less effective than direct communication

Detailed Explanation

Choice B is correct. The text states: 'relationship between the signifier and the signified is arbitrary; there is no natural connection.'

Key Evidence:

• "relationship... is arbitrary"

• "no natural connection between the word... and the object"

Why others are wrong: A (Misinterpretation (Arbitrary at system level, not individual use)), C (Misinterpretation), D (Not mentioned).

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