What does the term "syntax error" refer to in coding?

The term "syntax error" specifically refers to a mistake in the code's grammar, which prevents the code from executing successfully. In programming, each language has its own set of syntax rules similar to grammar rules in spoken languages. When these rules are broken — for example, missing punctuation, incorrect use of keywords, or improperly structured statements — the compiler or interpreter cannot parse the code. As a result, the program fails to run until these errors are corrected.

Understanding this concept is crucial because syntax errors often serve as the first barrier to getting a program to run. Identifying and fixing syntax errors is typically one of the initial steps in debugging a program, ensuring that the foundational structure of the code is sound before testing for logic or operational issues.