What is phonology primarily concerned with?

Phonology is primarily concerned with the structure and rules governing speech sounds. It focuses on how sounds function in particular languages, including the organization of sounds, the patterns of sound distribution, and the rules that dictate how sounds can be combined. Phonology examines phonemes, which are the smallest units of sound that can differentiate meaning in a given language, as well as syllable structure and stress patterns. Understanding phonological rules is essential for analyzing how different languages utilize sound and how this relates to speech production and perception. By studying phonology, one gains insights into how individuals process and produce speech sounds, which is foundational when working with developmental speech and language disorders.