Phonological, Morphological, and Semantic Development in a Three-Year-Old's First Language Acquisition

Authors

  • Az'zahro Mulfi Hasan Universitas Pamulang
  • Hilma Safitri Universitas Pamulang
  • Cahyani Mondita Kurnia Universitas Pamulang
  • Mutia Nurahma Aulia Universitas Pamulang
  • Nur Laila Universitas Pamulang

Keywords:

Phonology, Morphology, Semantics, First Language Acquisition

Abstract

Language acquisition is a natural and foundational process that begins in early childhood, as children gradually develop the ability to understand and use their first language. This study investigates the early stages of language development in a three-year-old child, with a focus on three core linguistic components: phonology, morphology, and semantics. Data were collected through naturalistic observation and recorded interactions between the child and a researcher, which were transcribed for analysis. The findings reveal significant progress in all three areas. Phonologically, the child exhibits common developmental patterns such as simplification of complex sounds and preference for familiar phonemes. Morphological development is marked by the use of truncated and restructured word forms, reflecting early awareness of word formation despite incomplete structures. Semantically, the child is able to express preferences, describe familiar objects, and convey daily experiences, even with limited grammatical accuracy. The presence of typical age-related errors underscores a healthy and dynamic progression in language acquisition. Overall, the study highlights how cognitive growth and social interaction jointly shape language development during early childhood.

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Published

2025-06-29

How to Cite

Az’zahro Mulfi Hasan, Hilma Safitri, Cahyani Mondita Kurnia, Mutia Nurahma Aulia, & Nur Laila. (2025). Phonological, Morphological, and Semantic Development in a Three-Year-Old’s First Language Acquisition. Paradigma Lingua, 5(3), 111–120. Retrieved from https://openjournal.unpam.ac.id/index.php/Paradigma/article/view/50795

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): Paradigma Lingua: Jurnal Penelitian Bahasa dan Sastra

Section

Articles

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