What term best describes the arrangement of words to create meaning?

The term that best describes the arrangement of words to create meaning is syntax. In linguistics, syntax is the set of rules, principles, and processes that govern the structure of sentences in a given language, specifically the order of words and phrases. By studying syntax, one can understand how word order influences meaning, how sentences are formed, and how different arrangements can change the function of the words used.

While grammar encompasses the broader category of rules that include syntax, morphology, and punctuation, syntax specifically focuses on sentence structure. Phrasing refers more to how groups of words are organized within spoken language and often relates to rhythm and intonation rather than the formal arrangement of words. Structure is a more general term and can apply to various contexts, including physical and organizational frameworks, without the specific focus on language. Therefore, syntax is the precise term that captures the idea of word arrangement for meaning.