Phonotactics refers to what aspect of a language?

Phonotactics pertains specifically to the rules governing the allowable sequences of phonemes within a particular language. These rules dictate which sounds can occur together and in what order, serving as a crucial aspect of phonology that helps shape the structure of spoken language. For example, certain consonant clusters may be permissible at the beginning of a word in English (like "str" in "street"), while others may not be allowed (such as "tl" or "dn").

Understanding phonotactics is essential for recognizing how phonemes can be combined to form syllables and words that fit a specific language's patterns. This component of language is particularly important in fields such as linguistics and speech-language pathology, as it impacts sound production and language development. In summary, phonotactics focuses on the permissible arrangements of sounds, which is why the correct answer emphasizes this aspect.