Grammar vs. Grammatical: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 18, 2023
"Grammar is the system of rules in a language; 'grammatical' describes adherence to those rules. One's the structure; the other, conformity."
Key Differences
"Grammar" represents the comprehensive system and structure of a language, encompassing syntax, morphology, and sometimes semantics. It's the framework that guides how words and sentences are structured. Conversely, "grammatical" acts as an adjective, indicating when something complies with the accepted rules of grammar, thereby denoting correctness in linguistic expression.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
The term "Grammar" is often employed to discuss, analyze, or refer to the rules of a language, whether in the context of learning a new language or analyzing linguistic structures. In contrast, "grammatical" is utilized to qualify specific phrases, sentences, or usages as correct or incorrect based on established grammatical standards.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
"Grammar" serves as the guiding foundation for effective communication, ensuring clarity and mutual understanding in language use. However, "grammatical" is more about assessment and judgment, marking a sentence, phrase, or word as aligning with the rules encapsulated in grammar.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
In education, "Grammar" refers to a subject of study, encompassing the rules and principles that dictate the use of language. On the other hand, "grammatical" might be used in feedback or analysis, highlighting whether a student's written or verbal expressions are correct in accordance with grammatical norms.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
While "Grammar" is a noun, focusing on a systematic body of rules and principles, "grammatical" is an adjective that derives its significance from the concept of grammar, used to describe or assess language elements in relation to their correctness or standardization.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
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Comparison Chart
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Grammar and Grammatical Definitions
Grammar
The whole system and structure of a language.
Understanding grammar is fundamental to learning any language.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Grammatical
Relating to or based on grammar.
She had a grammatical question about verb conjugations.
Janet White
Oct 18, 2023
Grammar
A book or study that outlines the rules of a language.
I bought a grammar to improve my English.
Janet White
Oct 18, 2023
Grammatical
Conforming to the rules of grammar.
His essay was grammatical, with no errors in sentence structure.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
Grammar
The basic principles of an activity or a field of knowledge.
He's learning the grammar of music composition.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
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Grammatical
Correct in terms of grammar usage.
The sentence 'She runs fast' is grammatical.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
Grammar
The study of how words and their component parts combine to form sentences.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammatical
Pertaining to the rules governing syntax, morphology, and phonology.
A grammatical analysis of the text revealed several inconsistencies.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
Grammar
The study of structural relationships in language or in a language, sometimes including pronunciation, meaning, and linguistic history.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammatical
Denoting the branch of linguistic study concerned with form and structure.
His research is focused on grammatical phenomena in ancient languages.
Janet White
Oct 18, 2023
Grammar
The system of rules implicit in a language, viewed as a mechanism for generating all sentences possible in that language.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
A normative or prescriptive set of rules setting forth the current standard of usage for pedagogical or reference purposes.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammatical
Not breaching any constraints of the grammar, or morpho-syntax, of the relevant language.
Your writing is not grammatical enough for publication.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammatical
Of or pertaining to grammar.
The writing was measured for both grammatical complexity and accuracy factors.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
A book containing the morphologic, syntactic, and semantic rules for a specific language.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammatical
Of or pertaining to grammar; of the nature of grammar; as, a grammatical rule.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammatical
According to the rules of grammar; grammatically correct; as, the sentence is not grammatical; the construction is not grammatical.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammatical
Of or pertaining to grammar;
The grammatic structure of a sentence
Grammatical rules
Grammatical gender
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
A system of rules and principles for speaking and writing a language.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammatical
Conforming to the rules of grammar or usage accepted by native speakers;
Spoke in grammatical sentences
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
The study of the internal structure of words (morphology) and the use of words in the construction of phrases and sentences (syntax).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
(computing theory) A formal system specifying the syntax of a language.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
Actual or presumed prescriptive notions about the correct use of a language.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
The basic rules or principles of a field of knowledge or a particular skill.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
A book describing these rules or principles; a textbook.
A grammar of geography
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
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.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
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.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
A treatise on the principles of language; a book containing the principles and rules for correctness in speaking or writing.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
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.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2022
Grammar
A set of linguistic norms and patterns that facilitate communication.
Good writers often have a strong command of grammar.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Grammar
Rules dictating the standard use of punctuation, syntax, and sentence structure.
Her grammar was impeccable, making her speech very clear.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
FAQs
Is "Grammar" just about sentence structure?
No, grammar encompasses sentence structure, syntax, punctuation, and parts of speech.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Can a sentence be "grammatical" with slang words?
Yes, if the sentence structure follows grammatical rules, even with slang.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Can "Grammar" vary between dialects or versions of English?
Yes, different forms of English can have variations in grammar.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Does "grammatical" mean error-free?
In terms of grammar, yes; a grammatical sentence aligns with established grammatical rules.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Can something be "grammatical" but still unclear?
Yes, if the sentence structure is overly complex or the context is missing, even a grammatical sentence can be unclear.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Does being "grammatical" ensure good writing?
Being grammatical contributes to clarity, but good writing also involves style, coherence, and engagement.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Is a sentence wrong if it's not grammatical?
It means the sentence doesn't adhere to standard grammar rules, which can lead to miscommunication or lack of clarity.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Why is studying "Grammar" important?
It provides a framework for effective communication and comprehension in a language.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Does "Grammar" change over time?
Yes, grammar can evolve with language use, cultural changes, and the adoption of new communication forms.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
Can "Grammar" be subjective?
While grammar has established rules, different styles and dialects might have their own grammatical norms.
Janet White
Oct 18, 2023
Is "Grammar" universal for all languages?
No, each language has its own unique set of grammatical rules and structures.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Are there different types of "Grammar"?
Yes, including descriptive, prescriptive, transformational, and others, based on how rules are approached and applied.
Harlon Moss
Oct 18, 2023
How does "Grammar" differ in written and spoken language?
Written language often has stricter adherence to grammar, while spoken language can be more flexible.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Are "grammatical rules" always fixed?
They provide a standard but can evolve or have exceptions, especially in creative writing.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
What's a "grammatical error"?
It's a mistake in writing or speech that goes against standard grammar rules.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
What's the role of "Grammar" in language learning?
It's crucial, as it forms the backbone of understanding how to form correct and clear sentences.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Is "grammatical accuracy" the same as "linguistic fluency"?
No, grammatical accuracy is about correctness, while fluency involves ease and smoothness of language use.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Is "grammatical" the same as "formal"?
Not always; a sentence can be grammatical without being formal, depending on word choice and style.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
How does "Grammar" affect meaning?
Grammar shapes sentence structure, affecting clarity, nuance, and sometimes the fundamental meaning of statements.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 18, 2023
Can a text be "grammatical" but still hard to read?
Yes, complexity, long sentences, or advanced vocabulary can make a grammatical text challenging.
Sara Rehman
Oct 18, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
