Which of the following are true of ‘performance,’ as used in linguistic theory?

A. It is analogous to the Saussurean concept of langue.
B. It refers to the specific utterances of individual native speakers in actual situations.
C. It is an innate grammar that suggests humans’ universal ability to use language.
D. It includes hesitations and unfinished structures arising out of psychological difficulties acting upon the speaker.

Correct option is D

Explanation:

In linguistic theory, particularly as defined by Noam Chomsky, "performance" refers to the actual use of language in real-life situations, which may include errors, hesitations, and incomplete sentences. Performance is distinct from "competence," which is the innate ability or knowledge of the rules of a language.

Performance involves the specific utterances made by speakers in particular situations, reflecting how language is used in practice.

Performance captures the imperfections of spoken language, including pauses, hesitations, and other psychological or physical influences.

Information Booster:

1. Competence vs. Performance:
   • Competence: The internalized knowledge of language rules.
   • Performance: The external application of language in speech or writing.
2. Performance reflects both linguistic ability and extralinguistic factors, such as memory and psychological states.
3. Chomsky emphasized the importance of distinguishing between competence and performance for linguistic analysis.

Additional Knowledge:

1.  "Langue" in Saussurean theory refers to the structured, shared system of a language (similar to Chomsky’s "competence"), not individual performance.
2.  Innate grammar or universal grammar refers to "competence," not "performance." Performance deals with external, practical use of language.