What should we keep in mind during the constant changes in the language?

DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

English

Hard

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

This option correctly identifies the need to balance linguistic evolution with stability. While languages are dynamic, their core structure must be maintained.
Preserving the fundamental form (grammar, syntax) is essential for ensuring mutual intelligibility across different regions, social groups, and time periods.
Destroying the form would lead to communication breakdown, making education, law, and formal discourse impossible.
It acknowledges that change is acceptable and natural, but places a necessary limit on it to preserve the language's function as a tool for clear communication.

Option A: This is an unrealistic stance. All living languages are in a constant state of flux. Attempting to freeze a language would lead to its stagnation and eventual decline.
Option B: This statement is too absolute and potentially destructive. While the form of a language does evolve slowly over centuries, advocating for its change or destruction as a principle would lead to chaos and incomprehensibility.
Option D: The power of adoption is what keeps a language alive, vibrant, and relevant. Ending it would prevent the language from incorporating new ideas, technologies, and cultural influences.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Principles of linguistic evolution and standardization as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This is a general knowledge question focusing on linguistics, not a clinical nursing topic.
However, the underlying principle of standardized communication is critically important in healthcare. Using clear, precise, and universally understood medical terminology prevents errors in patient care, documentation, and handoffs.
What if? If a hospital allowed each department to develop its own slang and abbreviations without a standard, it would lead to medication errors, incorrect procedures, and compromised patient safety, demonstrating the need for a preserved 'form' in professional communication.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is about the principles of language change.
Analyze the premise: The question acknowledges that 'constant changes' are a reality for language.
Evaluate each option against this premise. Options that fight against the nature of language (like 'no change' or 'end adoption') are likely incorrect.
Consider the consequences of each option. What would happen if the form was destroyed? What would happen if change was forbidden?
Look for the option that presents a balanced and logical approach. Language needs both stability (form) and flexibility (adoption/change) to function and thrive.
Conclude that preserving the fundamental structure while allowing for vocabulary growth is the most sustainable principle.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Psychology Morgan King 9e Part 2 p. 37-39

E6 Psychology Baron Misra 5e Part 1 p. 257-259