Which statement best describes the features of telegraphic sentences?

• A. Contains mainly content words with missing function words
• B. Uses function words and correct morphology
• C. Includes complex syntax
• D. Has robust use of pronouns

Answer: (A)

Telegraphic speech strips language down to its most essential content words—nouns, verbs, adjectives—while dropping function words like articles, prepositions, and auxiliary verbs. This lets the speaker convey core meaning with minimal words, much like a telegram. That’s why the best description is that these sentences contain mainly content words with missing function words. For example, a child might say “Want cookie” or “Dog chase cat” instead of “I want a cookie” or “The dog is chasing the cat.” The simplified morphology and avoidance of extra function words are characteristic of this stage. The other ideas—full function-word use, complex syntax, or heavy pronoun use—imply more complete, mature forms of language than telegraphic speech typically shows.