Home › Technology › Software & Programming › Syntax

Syntax

SIN-taks /ˈsɪntæks/

nounB2GRE

technicalformal

The set of rules that governs the structure of statements in a computer language, or in a natural language.

In programming, syntax refers to the specific grammar and arrangement of keywords, operators, and symbols that a language uses. A 'syntax error' means the code violates these rules and cannot be understood by the computer.

The story behind the word. The word 'syntax' comes from the Greek 'syntaxis,' meaning 'arrangement' or 'ordering together.' It's a combination of 'syn-' (together) and 'tassein' (to arrange). Originally, it referred to the arrangement of words in a sentence or the structure of a language. When computers arrived, the concept was perfectly suited to describe the precise rules for arranging symbols and commands in programming languages.

Word relationships

grammar: More commonly used for natural languages, though conceptually similar for programming.
structure: A broader term referring to how parts are arranged, but 'syntax' specifically refers to the rules governing that arrangement.

Commonly confused with

Semantics: Syntax is about the rules of arrangement; semantics is about the meaning conveyed by that arrangement.

Word family

syntactic (adjective): Relating to syntax.
syntactically (adverb): In a syntactic manner.

Collocations

correct syntax
invalid syntax
programming syntax
syntax error
check syntax

Example sentences

"The program failed to run because of a syntax error in the loop statement." Explaining a programming error.
"Python's clear and concise syntax makes it a popular choice for beginners." Comparing programming languages.
"The study of linguistics includes analyzing the syntax of different languages." Referring to natural language.

Memory hook

Think of 'SIN TAX' as a penalty for breaking the rules of grammar in your code. Sin Tax for Bad Rules

When not to use

Don't confuse 'syntax' with 'semantics.' Syntax is about form (is it grammatically correct?), while semantics is about meaning (does it make logical sense?).

Fun facts

Every programming language has its own unique syntax, which is why code written in one language usually won't run in another without translation.
Human languages also have syntax, but it's far more flexible and nuanced than computer language syntax.