Which term refers to the author's choice of words and their arrangement to create meaning?

The correct answer is "style" because it encompasses the author's choice of words, their arrangement, and the overall manner in which the author expresses ideas. Style is crucial in shaping the tone and voice of a text, allowing the author to convey meaning effectively and engage the reader. The specific diction (word choice) and the way sentences are constructed contribute to the unique style of the author, defining how they communicate themes and emotions within their work.

In contrast, "theme" refers to the central idea or underlying message in a text, rather than the specific language used. "Symbol" signifies an object or action that represents a greater concept or idea, lacking the focus on word choice and arrangement. "Syntax," while related to the arrangement of words, primarily deals with grammatical structure rather than the broader concept of style, which includes both word choice and syntax in its definition.