What aspect of language does syntax primarily deal with?

Syntax primarily deals with sentence structure, which refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language. It encompasses the rules and principles that govern how words combine to convey clear meanings and intentions. Understanding syntax is essential for effective communication, as it affects how different elements within a sentence relate to one another and how they contribute to overall comprehension.

For instance, in English, a typical sentence structure follows a subject-verb-object order. This syntactic rule helps convey who is doing the action and to whom that action is directed. A solid grasp of syntax helps readers and writers construct sentences that are not only grammatically correct but also coherent and logically organized, ultimately aiding in effective reading and writing.

The other options represent different elements of language. Word meanings pertain to semantics, phonetics relates to the sounds of spoken language, and spelling rules concern orthography. While these are all important components of language, they do not focus on the structure and order of sentences in the way that syntax does.