Which best describes an opaque language?

Which best describes an opaque language?

• A. Composed of pictures that represent entire words
• B. Sound of each language is predictable
• C. Many letters can make a variety of sounds
• D. Utilizes a phonetic alphabet exclusively

Answer: (C)

An opaque language is characterized by its inconsistent relationship between letters and sounds. In such languages, a single letter or combination of letters can produce multiple sounds, which makes pronunciation unpredictable. This complexity in sound production means that learners cannot easily deduce the pronunciation of a word solely based on its spelling, leading to a greater challenge in acquiring reading and writing skills. In essence, the notion of an opaque language highlights how many letters can represent a variety of sounds, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the correspondence between written language and spoken language. This understanding is crucial for educators and learners when approaching literacy in languages with opaque characteristics.

An opaque language is characterized by its inconsistent relationship between letters and sounds. In such languages, a single letter or combination of letters can produce multiple sounds, which makes pronunciation unpredictable. This complexity in sound production means that learners cannot easily deduce the pronunciation of a word solely based on its spelling, leading to a greater challenge in acquiring reading and writing skills.

In essence, the notion of an opaque language highlights how many letters can represent a variety of sounds, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the correspondence between written language and spoken language. This understanding is crucial for educators and learners when approaching literacy in languages with opaque characteristics.