Which unit in a language is identified as a phoneme?

• A. Words combined to create meaning
• B. The smallest unit of sound
• C. The organization of sentences
• D. The structural rules of vocabulary

Answer: (B)

A phoneme is the smallest unit of sound in a language that can distinguish one word from another. For example, changing the initial sound in the word "bat" to the sound in "cat" alters the meaning of the word entirely, illustrating how phonemes function as the building blocks of spoken language. This definition captures the essence of phonemes as critical elements in the phonological system of language that contribute to verbal communication and can change meaning based on their arrangement.

The other options represent different aspects of language but do not directly pertain to the definition of a phoneme. The first option refers to words, which are larger units of meaning composed of phonemes. The third option discusses sentence structure, which is related to syntax rather than phonemes. Lastly, the fourth option focuses on vocabulary rules, which are more about the organization and meaning of words rather than the sounds that make them up. Thus, identifying phonemes specifically relates to recognizing their role as the smallest units of sound in language.