Which of the following is a characteristic of discourse in spoken language?

• A. It is limited to the memorization of vocabulary lists.
• B. It involves the use of connected speech to convey meaning across sentences.
• C. It focuses solely on the pronunciation of individual words.
• D. It excludes the use of context and social cues in communication.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that discourse in spoken language refers to the way language is used in communication beyond individual words or sentences, focusing on connected speech and meaning.
2. Recognize that spoken discourse involves linking sentences and ideas together to convey coherent meaning, rather than isolated vocabulary or pronunciation.
3. Consider that spoken language relies heavily on context, social cues, and the flow of conversation to enhance understanding.
4. Eliminate options that suggest limitations to vocabulary memorization or focus only on individual word pronunciation, as these do not capture the essence of discourse.
5. Identify that the correct characteristic of discourse in spoken language is its use of connected speech to convey meaning across sentences.