Which component of communicative competence focuses on structuring and linking ideas to achieve coherence in discourse?

• A. Communicative Competence
• B. Linguistic Competence
• C. Discourse Competence
• D. Strategic Competence

Answer: (C)

The ability to structure and link ideas across sentences to create a smooth, logical flow is Discourse Competence. This aspect focuses on how a speaker or writer organizes ideas, uses transitions and connectors, and employs reference to keep the message cohesive from one part to the next. It’s about achieving coherence in extended discourse—how paragraphs and sentences fit together so the overall message is easy to follow. By contrast, linguistic competence covers grammar and vocabulary at the word and sentence level; strategic competence deals with managing communication and solving problems you encounter during interaction; and overall communicative competence includes all of these facets plus social and contextual appropriateness. So the emphasis on arranging ideas and connecting them across the discourse points clearly to Discourse Competence.