Phonology analyzes how sounds form patterns and rules in a language, going beyond individual sounds. Phonology examines why 's' sounds different in 'sit' and 'this'.
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Language Variation
Phonology can vary within a language, explaining accents and dialects that have different sounds. American and British English have phonological differences that affect pronunciation.
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Sounds and Meaning
Understanding phonology helps in recognizing how sound changes can lead to changes in meaning. In phonology, swapping 'p' for 'b' in 'pat' makes 'bat', altering meaning.