What is the correct definition for manner of articulation?

The definition for manner of articulation accurately describes how sounds are produced in terms of airflow. It focuses on the specifics of how the airflow is manipulated as it passes through the vocal tract during sound production. This includes aspects such as whether the airflow is fully stopped, partially obstructed, or relatively free as it exits the mouth.

Different manners of articulation, such as stops, fricatives, and nasals, designate the differing ways the airflow is obstructed or modified. For example, in stops, the airflow is completely blocked for a brief moment, whereas in fricatives, the airflow is forced through a narrow constriction, creating turbulence. This understanding is essential in the study of phonetics and phonology, as it categorizes the various types of sounds produced in human language based on their airflow characteristics.

The other options pertain to different aspects of sound production. The location of articulation, as mentioned in one of the choices, refers to where in the vocal tract the sound is produced rather than how the airflow is managed. Vocal fold vibration relates to whether sounds are voiced or voiceless, which does not encapsulate the manner of articulation. Neuromuscular execution focuses on the motor control of speech production and is not directly tied to the airflow