Which statement on the arbitrariness of the sign in Saussure's Course is INCORRECT?

1. AThe bond between signifier and signified is arbitrary.
2. BThe linguistic sign is arbitrary.
3. CThe word 'symbol' has been used to designate the linguistic sign, or more specifically the signified.
4. DA symbol is never wholly arbitrary; it is not empty, for there is the rudiment of a natural bond between signifier and signified.

Pick an option to check yourself, or open the answer below.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. The word 'symbol' has been used to designate the linguistic sign, or more specifically the signified.

Explanation

Saussure says 'symbol' has been used for the signifier, and he rejects it because symbols, like the scales of justice, are never wholly arbitrary.