We explain the difference between syntax and grammar with table. Languages are fun to learn. However, only those who can understand the grammar and syntax can easily write and speak any language in the correct sense. Many of us may think that the terms grammar and syntax are one and the same, however, there is a spring difference between the two. syntax vs grammar
The difference between syntax and grammar is that syntax is a part of grammar that is primarily concerned with putting words together in the correct sense, while grammar is a set of rules that defines the grammatical structure of a language.
However, the above is not the only difference. A comparison between both terms on certain parameters can shed light on subtle aspects: syntax vs grammar
Syntax and grammar comparison table (in tabular form)
Comparison syntax grammar parameter
| Sense | The syntax deals only with the sentence structure. | Grammar is a group of rules that establish the correct use of language. |
| Scope | The syntax deals mainly with word order. The syntax does not include grammar, so it can be considered to be limited in scope. | Grammar includes syntax and can therefore be considered to be wide in scope. |
| Subsets | The syntax has no more diversification | The grammar is further diversified into two types, viz. Morphology and syntax |
| Operation level | Syntax operates at a micro level, that is, syntax is about structuring words or determining which word comes before and after another word. | Grammar operates at a macro level, that is, grammar is about the correct structure of the language in general and not just focusing on words and sentences. |
| Composition | The syntax is free and easy in nature or, in other words, it can be considered optional. The syntax does not tell anyone how to use any rules nor does it establish any rules. | Grammar is more authoritative in nature. Establish certain rules to follow regarding the grammatical structure of the language. |
| Applicability | Syntax structures may not be known to most people. Syntax is a more in-depth study that scholars of literature or language can understand. | Most people will know the grammar and the rules related to it. Grammar is something that is followed in everyday use. |
| Order of precedence | Syntax is learned after studying grammar | Grammar is learned first before studying syntax syntax vs grammar |
What is the syntax? syntax vs grammar
The syntax is derived from the French term “syntax.” Syntax in the simple sense means to organize together. From the perspective of language, syntax can be viewed as an array of words.
The syntax is part of the grammar. Syntax is how linguistic elements (such as words) are put together to form components (such as sentences or clauses). In other words, the syntax can be called a part of grammar that deals specifically with the structuring of words or sentences. syntax vs grammar
Syntax is all about the words and how to arrange the words to create a perfect or well-organized sentence. Learning syntax is important for creating well-defined and structured sentences intended to convey the correct meaning and perspective of the speaker or writer. Syntax is a linguistic discipline that studies the structure of a sentence.syntax vs grammar
Syntax is a subset of grammar. In this sense, Syntax operates at a micro level to understand and study a certain set of rules and principles for the formation of organized sentences. Syntax is often considered a point of interest in poetry. Syntax is also commonly elaborated in relation to diction, that is, the poet’s choice of words.syntax vs grammar
What is grammar?
Grammar means a certain group of rules or procedures that dictate how a language (written / spoken) should be used in the correct sense. In simple terms, Grammar establishes the fundamental law to create correctly structured documents free from construction errors in words or sentences. Grammar can be thought of as a method of putting words in a way that creates proper and organized sentences. Grammar establishes the rules for forming sentences.
Grammar is subdivided into two categories. One is known as morphology and the other is known as syntax. Morphology has to do mainly with the internal structure of words. Although the English language may not have as much morphology, other languages, especially certain European languages, have a lot of morphology in their languages. Syntax deals with word organization that includes word order.
Grammar can be considered to have a macro scope because it establishes the general bases and rules for the construction of sentences and words. Grammar can be known as a starting point for anyone to learn to write and speak in the desired language.
Grammar is a set of structural rules that dictates how to construct sentences, words, phrases in a language. Grammar can be considered as something that raises a certain position or proposition. Additionally, Grammar also recommends that certain approaches be followed. Rules and grammar vary from language to language. But on a general level, grammar can be considered prescriptive in nature.syntax vs grammar
Main differences between syntax and grammar
- Syntax deals with word structuring or word arrangement. Grammar deals with the rules related to the general construction of sentences in a language.
- The syntax does not include grammar. Grammar includes syntax.
- The syntax is limited in scope. Grammar has a broader scope.
- The syntax operates at a micro level, that is, it only focuses on the arrangement of words. Grammar focuses on the macro level, that is, it deals with the rules regarding the construction of sentences, words and phrases.syntax vs grammar
- The syntax is not that common in everyday use. Grammar plays an important role in everyday use.
- The syntax is optional. Grammar has a prescriptive approach.
Final Thought
Mastery of syntax and grammar is important if one wants to speak and write fluently in any language. Syntax and grammar form an important and solid foundation for composing perfect sentences and structures. Since grammar includes syntax, in some cases there may be a possibility that syntax and grammar will overlap due to the subtle difference between these two terms.
It is recommended that one should strive to master the syntax and grammar of any language. The rationale behind mastering these aspects while studying a language can allow a person to construct clear and perfect sentences and words, thus leaving a lasting impression on the audience.syntax vs grammar
