The scientific study of language in its present or ancient form is called <u>linguistics</u>.
"Linguistics is the scientific study of human language." because a thorough examination of all facets of language, especially language's nature and structure, in a methodical, objective, and accurate manner is done in linguistics.
Linguistics is also known as "the science of language".
Etymology and grammar cannot be the correct answer as etymology is the study of the evolution of a word's semantic meaning over time as well as the history of a word's form and grammar is a system of structural rules that limit how sentences, phrases, and words can be put together by speakers or writers.
Thus the correct option is C that is linguistics.
To learn more about linguistics here
brainly.com/question/9506933
#SPJ4