syntax
SIN-taks
/ˈsɪntæks/
The arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language.
Refers strictly to the structural and grammatical rules of sentence construction, distinct from vocabulary choice or meaning.
The story behind the word. In ancient Greece, 'syntaxis' was a military term. It referred to the orderly arrangement of soldiers in battle formations. Over time, grammarians borrowed the word to describe how words are drawn up in battle-like order to form a coherent sentence.
Word relationships
- sentence structure: Sentence structure is a more common, non-technical term for syntax.
- grammar: Grammar is a broad term including syntax, punctuation, and word forms; syntax is specifically about word order.
Commonly confused with
- semantics: Syntax is about the structure and order of words, while semantics is about their actual meaning.
Word family
- syntactic (adjective): Relating to syntax or sentence structure.
- syntactically (adverb): In a way that relates to syntax.
Collocations
- complex syntax
- unusual syntax
- sentence syntax
- rules of syntax
Example sentences
- "His unusual syntax, characterized by long, winding clauses, gave his prose a hypnotic rhythm." An analysis of a famous author's unique writing style.
- "Every language has its own syntax that dictates where verbs and nouns must be placed." A textbook explaining the basics of linguistics.
Memory hook
Think of 'syntax' as the 'tax' or toll you pay to arrange your sentences correctly so they can pass through the reader's mind. Arranging words like soldiers.
When not to use
Do not use when discussing the definitions of words (which is semantics) or the sounds of words (phonetics).
Fun facts
- In computer science, a 'syntax error' means you have broken the structural rules of the programming language, preventing the code from running.
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