PHONOLOGICAL AND NON-PHONOLOGICAL OPPOSITIONS.

Abstract

This report explores the nature, structure, and functional significance of phonological and non-phonological oppositions within linguistic systems. Special attention is given to their role in distinguishing meaning, shaping phonemic inventories, and explaining phonetic variation. The work examines classical structuralist approaches, including the framework proposed by N. S. Trubetzkoy, and supplements them with insights from modern phonological theory. Examples from English, Russian, and other languages illustrate the universal relevance of oppositional analysis. The report demonstrates that oppositions, as relational units, are essential for understanding how sound systems operate and evolve.