What is the Difference Between Semantic and Syntactic?

The difference between semantic and syntactic lies in their focus and meaning. Syntax refers to the structure of language, such as word order and sentence composition, and is related to the grammar and structure of the language. Semantics, on the other hand, refers to the meaning of words and the relationships between words.

Key differences between syntax and semantics include:

• Focus: Syntax is concerned with the arrangement or order of words, determined by both the writer's style and grammar rules. Semantics, however, is concerned with the meaning of the words and the relationships between words.
• Error Types: In programming languages, syntax errors are encountered at compile time and occur when a statement is not valid according to the grammar of the programming language, such as missing semicolons or using undeclared variables. Semantic errors, on the other hand, are encountered at runtime and occur when a statement is syntactically valid but does not do what the programmer intended.
• Relationship: Syntax and semantics must work together to create meaningful sentences and statements. A well-constructed sentence with proper syntax may still be meaningless if the semantics are not well-defined or clear.

Comparative Table: Semantic vs Syntactic

Here is a table that highlights the differences between semantic and syntactic errors:

In summary, syntax is about the structure or the grammar of the language, while semantics is about the meaning associated with the statements in the programming language.