Question

The signifier refers to:

• A. The concept of the word
• B. The sound or form of the word
• C. The dictionary definition
• D. The historical origin

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The sound or form of the word

The Signifier (Signifiant):

• The form of the sign, which can be a spoken sound, a written word, or another symbol used in communication.

• The signifier is the physical form of the sign.

• It can be a sound pattern, written symbol, or even a gesture.

• The signifier is the material aspect that we perceive, such as the sequence of sounds when we say "tree" or the letters when we write it.

Characteristics:

• Arbitrary: The connection between the signifier and the signified is arbitrary (e.g., there’s no natural reason why the sound "tree" represents the concept of a tree).

• Linear: The signifier, particularly in spoken language, unfolds in time and must be perceived in sequence.

Example:

• In English: The sound "tree" or the written letters "T-R-E-E."

• In French: The sound "arbre" or the written letters "A-R-B-R-E."