Which term describes the system of rules for sentence structure and the arrangement of words to form meaningful utterances?

• A. Grammar
• B. Syntax
• C. Mechanics
• D. Punctuation

Answer: (B)

Syntax is the system that governs how words are arranged to form sentences. It dictates the order of subjects, verbs, and objects and how phrases and clauses fit together to express a clear meaning. In English, the usual order is subject–verb–object, as in “The cat chased the mouse.” If the word order is scrambled, the sentence often sounds awkward or is ungrammatical, even if the individual words are correct. Grammar is a broader term that includes syntax along with word forms and usage, while mechanics and punctuation focus on spelling and the marks that separate sentences. So, the term that describes this specific aspect—how sentence structure and word order create meaningful utterances—is syntax.