Understanding Syntax: How Words Fit Together to Make Sense
Syntax is the arrangement of words in a phrase to make sense. Arranging various word classes, such as nouns, verbs, adverbs, and adjectives, in a way that meets the expectations of our readers and listeners is similar to solving a jigsaw. The famous example from Noam Chomsky illustrates the significance of syntax by contrasting two meaningless phrases: "colorless green ideas sleep furiously" and "furiously sleep ideas green colorless." These statements don't make much sense semantically, but they do show the importance of word choice.
The structure of most straightforward English sentences is subject-verb-object, as in "Ali kicked the ball." Not all languages, nevertheless, follow this pattern. For instance, modern standard Arabic uses verb-subject-object.Depending on whether the subject or the verb is more essential in an Arabic phrase, either SVO or VSO is used. Sentence form is also influenced by sociolinguistic factors. Standard Arabic tends to favor VSO, while colloquial Arabic, in particular, favors SVO. Urdu , Punjabi, Potohari, and Saraiki prefer subject-object-verb. In English, deviating from the normal syntax may produce odd phrases like "kicked Ali the ball" or "Ali the ball kicked."
Syntax enables us to quickly comprehend its meanings and evaluate the structures of a language under investigation. Based on established presumptions about how words are used in sentences, we can comprehend the semantic meaning of a statement. The word order is occasionally purposely altered, though. This occurs to emphasize certain ideas, create poetic rhythms, or add creative flare. Shakespeare's Richard III showcases such flexibility in syntax, with lines like "Plots have I laid, inductions dangerous," challenging our expectations while remaining intelligible within the context.
While English syntax sets standards, it's necessary to take into account other syntactical elements that influence meaning in both spoken and written language. Understanding these patterns makes it easier for you and your audience to understand the intended message.
Source: https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/wlf/what-syntax-oregon-state-guide-grammar
