What aspect of language does syntax prescribe?

Syntax is fundamentally concerned with the structure of language, specifically how words can be organized into phrases, clauses, and sentences. It prescribes the rules and patterns that dictate the grammatical arrangement of words to create meaningful and coherent expressions. This means that syntax provides the framework that allows individuals to communicate complex ideas by adding modifiers, coordinating elements, and organizing thoughts in a way that is understood by others.

In contrast, the first option focuses on semantics, which deals with the meanings of words themselves. The third option pertains to pragmatics, the study of how context influences the interpretation of language. The fourth option relates to the physical aspects of speaking and language production, which involve physiological and neurological mechanisms. Overall, understanding syntax is crucial for grasping how language is constructed and for analyzing the grammatical relationships between words.