Which example reflects a phonotactic constraint in English?

Phonotactic constraints refer to the rules and patterns that dictate the permissible combinations of sounds in a particular language. In English, certain sequences of sounds are allowed, while others are not, based on how the phonemes can be organized within words.

The sequence "bn" as in "bnick" does not occur in English. This combination of consonants violates English phonotactic rules because English does not permit a word to begin with a consonant cluster starting with 'b' followed immediately by 'n'. In contrast, sequences such as "br," "bl," and "pl" are typical in English and adhere to its phonotactic rules; they can begin words and are commonly found in numerous examples (like "brick," "blick," and "play").

Identifying "bn" as a non-compliant sequence highlights an essential aspect of phonotactics: that certain arrangements of sounds are integral to the structure of the language, while others simply do not fit within the established norms. Thus, the example of "bn" effectively illustrates a phonotactic constraint in English.