Which term describes the ability to define words and reflect on language use?

Which term describes the ability to define words and reflect on language use?

• A. Metalinguistic awareness
• B. Semantic knowledge
• C. Lexical competence
• D. Pragmatic knowledge

Answer: (A)

Metalinguistic awareness is the capacity to think about language itself—to define words, examine meanings, and reflect on how language is used. The task described requires not just knowing what words mean, but actively considering language as a system and how it operates in different contexts, which is exactly what metalinguistic awareness encompasses.

Semantic knowledge is about word meanings themselves, not the act of reflecting on language. Lexical competence concerns knowing and using vocabulary effectively in communication. Pragmatic knowledge focuses on how language is used in social situations and what speakers intend or imply. The option that lines up with defining terms and analyzing language use best captures the metalinguistic reflection described.