syntax

/ˈsɪntæks/
noun
  1. The set of rules that govern the structure of sentences in a language, including word order and grammatical relationships.
    • Learning the syntax of a new language can be challenging.
    • The teacher explained how syntax affects meaning in sentences.
    • English syntax usually places the subject before the verb.
  2. The structure or rules for arranging elements in a computer programming language.
    • The developer reviewed the syntax of the script to find the bug.
    • Python's syntax uses indentation to define code blocks.
    • A missing semicolon can break the syntax of a C++ program.