Which of the following best describes discourse boundaries?

Discourse boundaries refer to the way language is organized into units that carry meaning, and this concept is best encapsulated by the idea of levels of phrasing and chunking in language. In communication, speakers naturally group words and phrases together to convey thoughts more effectively and allow listeners to process information. These boundaries help to clarify meaning and structure in oral discourse, allowing the listener to understand where one idea ends and another begins.

In contrast to the correct choice, expectations of conversation flow focus more on the patterns and norms that guide how conversations typically progress rather than the structural elements of language itself. Physical spaces between speakers pertains to non-verbal communication cues rather than the linguistic organization of discourse. Appropriate pauses during speech can support understanding but are more a technique used in delivery rather than the inherent organization of language. Therefore, levels of phrasing and chunking directly align with the concept of discourse boundaries, making it the most accurate description in this context.