What is syntax?
A. A group of sentences set apart from other groups in a piece of writing.
B. A piece of writing that is meant to persuade readers to feel a certain way.
C. A sentence that contains one independent clause.
D. The set of grammical rules that determine how words and phrases are arranged in a sentence.
D. The set of grammical rules that determine how words and phrases are arranged in a sentence.
D. The set of grammatical rules that determine how words and phrases are arranged in a sentence.
The correct answer is D. The set of grammatical rules that determine how words and phrases are arranged in a sentence.
Syntax refers to the rules that govern the structure and formation of sentences in a language. It involves the arrangement of words and phrases in a specific order to create meaning and convey information. Syntax includes rules for word order, sentence structure, punctuation, and other grammatical conventions.
To arrive at this answer, you can eliminate options A and B. Option A describes a paragraph or section of writing, not syntax. Option B describes persuasive writing, which is a different concept altogether. Option C refers to a simple sentence, but syntax encompasses more than just one independent clause.
By process of elimination, option D is the most suitable answer as it correctly defines syntax as the set of grammatical rules determining how words and phrases are arranged in a sentence.