noun
syntax
SIHN-taks
noun
1
The set of rules governing how words are arranged to form correct phrases and sentences in a language.
"Learning a new language means getting used to its syntax as well as its vocabulary."
2
The formal rules that define how statements must be written in a computer programming language.
"The code failed because of a simple syntax error, a missing semicolon."
How to Use Syntax
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe rules for correctly ordering words (in a language) or commands (in code).
Common pairings
syntax error
sentence syntax
Word Forms
syntaxes plural, syntaces plural, syntices plural
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Learning a new language means getting used to its _____ as well as its vocabulary.
Etymology
From Ancient Greek suntaxis, "arrangement," from syn- ("together") and tassein ("to arrange").