Which of the following statements about the structure of language is correct?

• A. The structure of language ignores social interaction and focuses only on grammar.
• B. Cooperation is not relevant to how language is structured or used.
• C. Cooperation is considered a fundamental principle in the structure of language.
• D. Language structure is solely based on individual expression without any cooperative principles.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the structure of language involves multiple components, including grammar, semantics, and pragmatics, which are influenced by social interaction.
2. Recognize that cooperation plays a key role in language use because communication typically requires shared understanding and mutual effort between speakers and listeners.
3. Recall that linguistic theories, such as Grice's Cooperative Principle, emphasize that effective communication depends on cooperative behavior to convey meaning clearly and efficiently.
4. Evaluate each statement by considering whether it acknowledges the social and cooperative aspects of language structure and use.
5. Conclude that the statement highlighting cooperation as a fundamental principle aligns with linguistic research, making it the correct choice.