What does the term 'syntax' refer to?

The term 'syntax' refers to the grammatical rules that govern how words and phrases are arranged to create meaningful sentences. It involves the structure of sentences and the relationships between the words within them. Understanding syntax is crucial for effective communication, as it determines how meaning is conveyed through the arrangement of words. For instance, changing the order of words in a sentence can change its meaning entirely.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of language. One option relates to phonology, which concerns the sound structures of words. Another option speaks to semantics, focusing on the meaning of words in context. The remaining option refers to the process of writing revisions, which is about editing and improving written work rather than the construction of sentences themselves. Thus, syntax specifically addresses the rules and principles that shape sentence formation in language.