An arbitrary sign is a sign where the connection between the signifier (the word or symbol) and the signified (the concept it represents) is based on convention rather than any inherent connection. In the list provided, "Chicken," "Hamburger," "Sandwich," and "French fries" are all examples of arbitrary signs.
Here's why:
1. Chicken: The word "chicken" is an arbitrary sign because there is no inherent connection between the sound/word "chicken" and the actual bird or meat it represents. The word itself is a product of language and cultural convention.
2. Hamburger: Similar to "chicken," the word "hamburger" is also an arbitrary sign. There is no logical reason why the sound "hamburger" should represent a specific type of food; it is a result of human agreement and language development.
3. Sandwich: Just like "chicken" and "hamburger," the word "sandwich" is an arbitrary sign. The combination of bread and filling being called a "sandwich" is not a universal truth but a convention established by language and culture.
4. French fries: Once again, "French fries" is an arbitrary sign because the connection between the words "French fries" and the fried potato strips they represent is based on convention rather than any intrinsic relationship between the sound of the words and the food item.
In conclusion, all the options provided – "Chicken," "Hamburger," "Sandwich," and "French fries" – are considered arbitrary signs due to their reliance on cultural and linguistic conventions for their meanings.
