"Word origin is arbitrary, word usage is conventional." This means that
A) word meaning is derived from the nature of the word itself
B) if an object or event has no name, we can make up a name for it
C) we can't make up a meaning for a word
D) we can use words in any way we wish and communication will be competent

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The statement implies that the origin of words (how they come to represent something) is not inherently tied to the word itself but can be created or assigned by people (arbitrary). The conventional aspect refers to the agreed-upon use or meaning of words within a language community, which does not support the idea that words can be used in any manner one wishes (D) or that meanings can be made up arbitrarily (C). It also contradicts the idea that word meanings are derived from their nature (A), emphasizing instead that names for objects or events can be invented.

"Word Origin Is Arbitrary, Word Usage Is Conventional