What term is used to describe the rules that determine how words are structured in sentences?

The term that describes the rules governing how words are structured in sentences is syntax. Syntax involves the arrangement of words to create meaningful phrases and sentences. It encompasses the grammatical rules that dictate how different parts of speech (such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.) work together within a sentence to convey clear and coherent meanings.

For example, different languages have varying syntactic structures, which can affect how the same idea is expressed. Understanding syntax is essential for both developing written language skills and enhancing spoken communication. It helps learners see the relationship between words and their roles within a larger context.

Other terms mentioned, such as semantics, focus on meaning, while syllable structure pertains to the way syllables are organized within words, and phonetics involves the sounds of speech. These aspects are important but do not specifically address the rules of sentence structure like syntax does.