What is the dictionary and syntax?

If you are learning a new language or want to improve your knowledge of something, you've probably heard the words "dictionary" and "syntax."

What is the difference?

Although both tools are important for learning a language, they refer to different aspects of the language. The dictionary is used to look up the meaning of individual words, while syntax focuses on the structure of sentences and how words combine to form meaning.

Use of the dictionary:

The dictionary is mainly used to look up the meaning of unknown words or to confirm the meaning of familiar words. By searching for a word, you can find its definition, pronunciation, and also the different ways it can be used (as a noun, verb, or adjective).

Example:

If you come across the word "strident" and don't know its meaning, you can look it up in the dictionary. Then you will discover that it means "a sharp or piercing sound."

Syntax usage:

Syntax is important because the way words are arranged in a sentence can change their meaning. It's like a puzzle: the words must fit together in a specific way to create the full picture of the meaning of the sentence.

Example:

If we say "John eats apples", the subject (John) does the action (eat) on the object (apples). But if we change the order and say "Apples eat Juan", the meaning changes completely and it seems that the apples are eating Juan.

Comparative list between dictionary and syntax:

• Dictionary: It is used to look up the meaning of individual words.
• Syntax: It focuses on sentence structure and how words combine to form meaning.
• Dictionary: It provides meaning, pronunciation and different ways of using a word.
• Syntax: Helps understand how words connect to form meaningful sentences and paragraphs.
• Dictionary: It is used when you encounter an unknown word or want to confirm its meaning.
• Syntax: It helps to understand the way words are used in a sentence to create meaning.

Conclusion:

Both the dictionary and syntax are important tools in learning a language. You need to understand the meaning of individual words, as well as how they combine to form meaningful sentences. With practice and use of both tools, we can improve our understanding and language skills.

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