What is the focus of syntax in language?

The focus of syntax in language is on sentence structure. Syntax refers to the set of rules, principles, and processes that govern the sentence structure of any language. It dictates how words combine to form phrases, clauses, and sentences, thereby establishing how meaning is conveyed through different sentence constructions. Understanding syntax is crucial in both spoken and written language, as it affects clarity and coherence in communication.

For instance, in English, the typical word order for a basic declarative sentence is Subject-Verb-Object (e.g., "The cat (subject) chased (verb) the mouse (object)"). Variations in this structure can lead to different meanings or make sentences grammatically incorrect. This emphasis on sentence structure differentiates syntax from semantics, which is concerned with meaning, and other areas of language such as social interaction and phonetics.