Which option best describes the role of stress in phonology?

The role of stress in phonology is accurately described by the idea that it can modify a word's meaning based on syllable emphasis. Stress refers to the emphasis placed on certain syllables within words, which can affect how those words are understood in spoken language. For example, the word "record" can mean different things depending on which syllable is stressed: the first syllable (RE-cord) usually refers to a noun, while the second syllable (re-CORD) indicates the verb form. This distinction highlights how phonological stress is essential for conveying meaning and understanding within spoken language.

Other options do not capture this fundamental aspect of stress in phonology effectively. For instance, suggesting that stress only affects written text ignores the auditory nature of language. Additionally, the idea that stress always creates new words is an overstatement; while stress can influence word forms and their uses, it does not inherently create new words. Finally, stating that stress is irrelevant to word pronunciation overlooks the critical role that stress plays in how words are articulated and perceived by listeners. Thus, understanding stress is vital for effective communication and interpretation in spoken language.