Grammar vs. Grammatical — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 16, 2024
Grammar refers to the rules of language structure, while grammatical describes something that adheres to these rules.
Difference Between Grammar and Grammatical
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Grammar is the system of rules that governs the structure of sentences in a language. It encompasses syntax, morphology, phonology, and semantics. For example, grammar dictates how words are combined to form sentences and how tenses are used. Grammatical, on the other hand, is an adjective used to describe something that conforms to these rules. A sentence, phrase, or word is grammatical if it adheres to the accepted rules of grammar. For instance, "She runs quickly" is a grammatical sentence.
While grammar is a broader concept referring to the entire set of linguistic rules, grammatical is a descriptive term that evaluates whether something complies with these rules. You might study grammar to learn about language structure, whereas you use grammatical to assess correctness in language use.
Grammar is often taught in educational settings and is crucial for understanding and constructing coherent sentences. Grammatical, meanwhile, is a term frequently used in language assessment to determine if something is correctly phrased according to standard grammar rules.
Grammar includes various components like punctuation, sentence structure, and parts of speech, while grammatical focuses solely on whether these components are used correctly. For example, a grammar book might explain different tenses, while a grammatical sentence correctly uses these tenses.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Rules governing language structure
Describes adherence to these rules
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Usage Context
Education, linguistics, language learning
Language assessment, correction
Grammatical Use
Noun
Adjective
Focus
Entire system of linguistic rules
Compliance with grammar rules
Example
Grammar explains sentence structure
"She runs quickly" is grammatical
Compare with Definitions
Grammar
The rules governing the syntax and word forms in a language.
Proper grammar is essential for clear communication.
Grammatical
Adhering to the rules of grammar.
The sentence is grammatical and easy to understand.
Grammar
The study of sentence structure and language rules.
English grammar includes rules for forming tenses.
Grammatical
Following the language rules accurately.
She made sure her speech was grammatical.
Grammar
A guide or book explaining these rules.
She bought a grammar book to improve her writing skills.
Grammatical
Conforming to the standard language norms.
The software checks if the text is grammatical.
Grammar
In linguistics, the grammar (from Ancient Greek γραμματική grammatikḗ) of a natural language is its set of structural constraints on speakers' or writers' composition of clauses, phrases, and words. The term can also refer to the study of such constraints, a field that includes domains such as phonology, morphology, and syntax, often complemented by phonetics, semantics, and pragmatics.
Grammatical
Correct in terms of syntax and word usage.
His essay was both grammatical and well-argued.
Grammar
The study of how words and their component parts combine to form sentences.
Grammatical
Of or relating to grammar.
Grammar
The study of structural relationships in language or in a language, sometimes including pronunciation, meaning, and linguistic history.
Grammatical
Conforming to the rules of grammar
A grammatical sentence.
Grammar
The system of inflections, syntax, and word formation of a language.
Grammatical
Not breaching any constraints of the grammar, or morpho-syntax, of the relevant language.
Your writing is not grammatical enough for publication.
Grammar
The system of rules implicit in a language, viewed as a mechanism for generating all sentences possible in that language.
Grammatical
Of or pertaining to grammar.
The writing was measured for both grammatical complexity and accuracy factors.
Grammar
A normative or prescriptive set of rules setting forth the current standard of usage for pedagogical or reference purposes.
Grammatical
Of or pertaining to grammar; of the nature of grammar; as, a grammatical rule.
Grammar
Writing or speech judged with regard to such a set of rules.
Grammatical
According to the rules of grammar; grammatically correct; as, the sentence is not grammatical; the construction is not grammatical.
Grammar
A book containing the morphologic, syntactic, and semantic rules for a specific language.
Grammatical
Of or pertaining to grammar;
The grammatic structure of a sentence
Grammatical rules
Grammatical gender
Grammar
The basic principles of an area of knowledge
The grammar of music.
Grammatical
Conforming to the rules of grammar or usage accepted by native speakers;
Spoke in grammatical sentences
Grammar
A book dealing with such principles.
Grammatical
Pertaining to grammar.
They had a grammatical debate over sentence structure.
Grammar
A system of rules and principles for speaking and writing a language.
Grammar
The study of the internal structure of words (morphology) and the use of words in the construction of phrases and sentences (syntax).
Grammar
A book describing the rules of grammar of a language.
Grammar
(computing theory) A formal system specifying the syntax of a language.
Grammar
Actual or presumed prescriptive notions about the correct use of a language.
Grammar
(computing theory) A formal system defining a formal language
Grammar
The basic rules or principles of a field of knowledge or a particular skill.
Grammar
A book describing these rules or principles; a textbook.
A grammar of geography
Grammar
(UK) A grammar school.
Grammar
To discourse according to the rules of grammar; to use grammar.
Grammar
The science which treats of the principles of language; the study of forms of speech, and their relations to one another; the art concerned with the right use and application of the rules of a language, in speaking or writing.
Grammar
The art of speaking or writing with correctness or according to established usage; speech considered with regard to the rules of a grammar.
The original bad grammar and bad spelling.
Grammar
A treatise on the principles of language; a book containing the principles and rules for correctness in speaking or writing.
Grammar
Treatise on the elements or principles of any science; as, a grammar of geography.
When any town shall increase to the number of a hundredfamilies or householders, they shall set up a grammar school, the master thereof being able to instruct youth so far as they may be fitted for the University.
Grammar
To discourse according to the rules of grammar; to use grammar.
Grammar
Studies of the formation of basic linguistic units
Grammar
A system of rules for a particular language.
Spanish grammar has different verb conjugations.
Grammar
The branch of linguistics dealing with the structure of language.
He teaches grammar at the university.
Common Curiosities
Is grammar only about sentence structure?
No, grammar also includes syntax, morphology, phonology, and semantics.
What is the purpose of grammar?
The purpose of grammar is to provide a framework for constructing clear and coherent sentences.
What does grammatical mean?
Grammatical describes something that conforms to the rules of grammar.
Can a word be grammatical?
Yes, a word can be grammatical if it is used correctly according to language rules.
Can a sentence be ungrammatical?
Yes, a sentence can be ungrammatical if it does not follow the rules of grammar.
What is grammar?
Grammar is the set of rules governing the structure of sentences in a language.
How is grammatical used in a sentence?
Grammatical is used to describe whether a sentence or phrase adheres to grammar rules.
What is the difference between grammar and syntax?
Grammar is the overall system of rules, while syntax specifically refers to the arrangement of words in sentences.
Are spelling and punctuation part of grammar?
Yes, spelling and punctuation are components of grammar.
Can grammar rules change over time?
Yes, grammar rules can evolve as language usage changes.
What is a grammar book?
A grammar book is a guide that explains the rules of grammar for a particular language.
Why is grammar important in writing?
Grammar is important in writing because it ensures clarity and precision in communication.
Is grammatical correctness necessary for effective communication?
Yes, grammatical correctness helps ensure that the intended meaning is conveyed accurately.
Is it possible to speak fluently without perfect grammar?
Yes, fluency and grammatical perfection are different; one can be fluent but still make grammatical errors.
How can one improve their grammatical skills?
One can improve their grammatical skills by studying grammar rules, reading extensively, and practicing writing.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
