What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
syntax
Example
The syntax of English requires that adjectives come before nouns. [syntax: noun]
Example
She struggled with the syntax of the programming language. [syntax: noun]
composition
Example
Her composition on the effects of climate change was well-researched. [composition: noun]
Example
He composed a beautiful piece of music for the piano. [composed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Syntax is more commonly used in linguistic and grammatical contexts, while composition is more commonly used in literary and artistic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between syntax and composition?
Both syntax and composition can be used in formal and informal contexts, but syntax is typically associated with a more technical and formal tone due to its use in linguistic and grammatical contexts.
