What triggers a syntax error in a programming language?

A syntax error in a programming language occurs when the code does not conform to the grammatical rules established by that language. Each programming language has its own syntax, which includes specific rules regarding how statements must be formatted, how keywords and operators should be used, and how expressions must be constructed.

When a programmer writes code that violates these grammatical rules, the compiler or interpreter cannot understand the instructions being conveyed, leading to a syntax error. For instance, common syntax errors might include missing punctuation such as semicolons, mismatched parentheses, or incorrect use of reserved keywords. This error is typically caught during the compilation or interpretation process, preventing the program from running until the syntax issues have been corrected.

Understanding syntax is crucial for successful programming, as it lays the foundation for writing code that the computer can execute. A programmer must be attentive to the syntax rules of the language they are working with to avoid these errors.