Explanation of Widi’s Statement on Phonology
According to Widi, as cited in Asiva Noor Rachmayani (2015), phonology is described as the study of spoken language as a whole and is referred to as a “language of branched knowledge.” This means:
- Phonology is a specialized field: It is a distinct branch within the broader study of language (linguistics), focusing specifically on the sound systems of languages.
- It has multiple subfields: As a “branched knowledge,” phonology itself is divided into various areas, such as:
- Segmental phonology (studying individual sounds or phonemes)
- Suprasegmental phonology (focusing on features like stress, tone, and intonation)
- Theoretical phonology (developing models to explain sound patterns)
- Comprehensive scope: By studying spoken language “as a whole,” phonology examines how sounds function systematically within a language, including their production, perception, and organization.
In essence, Widi emphasizes that phonology is not a monolithic subject but a structured, multi-faceted discipline dedicated to understanding the sound aspects of human language.