Grammar vs. Vocabulary — What's the Difference?

The study of how sentences are formed in a language.

The body of words used in a particular language.

The system of rules by which words are formed and put together to make sentences.

The set of words known and used by a person in a language.

A set of standards used to regulate the speaking and writing of a language.

A list or collection of words with definitions used in a particular profession, subject, or style.

The branch of linguistics that deals with syntax and morphology.

Words that are available for use by a language community.

A book or resource outlining the grammatical rules of a language.

A resource that lists words and their meanings, often for learning.

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.

A vocabulary is a set of familiar words within a person's language. A vocabulary, usually developed with age, serves as a useful and fundamental tool for communication and acquiring knowledge.

The study of how words and their component parts combine to form sentences.

All the words of a language.

The study of structural relationships in language or in a language, sometimes including pronunciation, meaning, and linguistic history.

The sum of words used by, understood by, or at the command of a particular person or group.

The system of inflections, syntax, and word formation of a language.

A list of words and often phrases, usually arranged alphabetically and defined or translated; a lexicon or glossary.

The system of rules implicit in a language, viewed as a mechanism for generating all sentences possible in that language.

A supply of expressive means; a repertoire of communication

A normative or prescriptive set of rules setting forth the current standard of usage for pedagogical or reference purposes.

A usually alphabetized and explained collection of words e.g. of a particular field, or prepared for a specific purpose, often for learning.

Writing or speech judged with regard to such a set of rules.

The collection of words a person knows and uses.

A book containing the morphologic, syntactic, and semantic rules for a specific language.

The stock of words used in a particular field.

The basic principles of an area of knowledge

The words of a language collectively; lexis.

A book dealing with such principles.

(by extension) A range of artistic or stylistic forms or techniques.

A system of rules and principles for speaking and writing a language.

A list or collection of words arranged in alphabetical order and explained; a dictionary or lexicon, either of a whole language, a single work or author, a branch of science, or the like; a word-book.

The study of the internal structure of words (morphology) and the use of words in the construction of phrases and sentences (syntax).

A listing of the words used in some enterprise

A book describing the rules of grammar of a language.

A language user's knowledge of words

(computing theory) A formal system specifying the syntax of a language.

The system of techniques or symbols serving as a means of expression (as in arts or crafts);

Actual or presumed prescriptive notions about the correct use of a language.

(computing theory) A formal system defining a formal language

The basic rules or principles of a field of knowledge or a particular skill.

A book describing these rules or principles; a textbook.

(UK) A grammar school.

To discourse according to the rules of grammar; to use 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.

The art of speaking or writing with correctness or according to established usage; speech considered with regard to the rules of a grammar.

A treatise on the principles of language; a book containing the principles and rules for correctness in speaking or writing.

Treatise on the elements or principles of any science; as, a grammar of geography.

To discourse according to the rules of grammar; to use grammar.

Studies of the formation of basic linguistic units

Vocabulary is about words and meanings, while grammar concerns the rules for using these words in sentences.

Grammar structures and organizes sentences to ensure clarity and correctness in communication.

While vocabulary can exist as a list of words, its effective use in communication requires grammar.

Components of grammar include syntax, morphology, and sometimes phonetics.

Grammar is vital for constructing coherent and understandable sentences.

Yes, vocabulary can be categorized into active (regularly used) and passive (understood but not used).

Vocabulary choice can influence grammatical structure, especially in complex sentences.

Expanding vocabulary can be achieved through reading, listening, and practicing new words.

No, grammar varies significantly across languages, though some fundamental principles may overlap.

Vocabulary is crucial for understanding and being understood in a new language.

Grammar rules should be revised as language evolves, though core rules often remain stable.

A large vocabulary enhances fluency but must be complemented by strong grammar skills for full proficiency.

Grammar affects sentence structure, while pronunciation affects how the words within that structure are sounded.