Which term best describes the view that language should reflect how people actually speak?

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Prepare for the AQA A-level English Language Test. Study with interactive quizzes on language change, complete with detailed explanations. Get ahead in your exam preparation today!

Multiple Choice

Which term best describes the view that language should reflect how people actually speak?

Explanation:
Descriptivism is the view that language should reflect how people actually speak. It treats everyday speech as data to be described and documented, including informal forms and changes over time, rather than prescribing what is considered correct. This fits the prompt because it emphasizes capturing real usage rather than enforcing rules. Prescriptivism is the opposite stance, aiming to maintain and enforce fixed standards. Affixation and blending are word-formation processes, not attitudes toward describing language.

Descriptivism is the view that language should reflect how people actually speak. It treats everyday speech as data to be described and documented, including informal forms and changes over time, rather than prescribing what is considered correct. This fits the prompt because it emphasizes capturing real usage rather than enforcing rules. Prescriptivism is the opposite stance, aiming to maintain and enforce fixed standards. Affixation and blending are word-formation processes, not attitudes toward describing language.

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