What makes symbols arbitrary in communication?

Symbols are considered arbitrary in communication because their meanings are created through social agreement rather than being inherently linked to the objects or concepts they represent. This means that there is no natural connection between the symbol and its meaning, allowing for flexibility in interpretation and usage. For instance, the word "tree" does not have any intrinsic connection to the physical object; it is simply a label agreed upon by a particular language community. This arbitrariness allows different cultures and languages to assign varying meanings to the same symbol, reflecting their unique contexts and experiences.

The other options suggest a more rigid relationship between symbols and their meanings. The notion that symbols must represent only real objects or convey the same meaning across all cultures overlooks the diversity of interpretations that exists. Additionally, the idea that symbols are fixed and not subject to interpretation contradicts the very nature of communication, which relies on shared understanding and flexibility in meaning.