NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

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In the study of languages, what does 'stress' refer to?

Emphasis placed on syllables/words
Patterns of speech sounds
Intonation in voice
The combination of morphemes

The correct answer is: Emphasis placed on syllables/words

Stress in the study of languages specifically refers to the emphasis placed on certain syllables or words in speech. This emphasis can affect the meaning of a word or phrase. For instance, in some languages, a change in stress can differentiate between nouns and verbs, or alter the meaning of a word entirely. In English, stress can also convey nuances; for example, in the phrase "I didn't say she stole the money," varying which word is stressed can change the implication of the sentence. Recognizing stress patterns is essential for proper pronunciation and fluency in a language, making it a fundamental aspect of phonology and linguistics. The other options, while related to language, do not encapsulate the specific definition of 'stress.' Patterns of speech sounds refer more to phonetic features, intonation involves the rise and fall of voice pitch rather than emphasis on specific syllables or words, and morphemes deal with the smallest units of meaning in language structure, which is a different area of linguistic study.