grammar

noun

gram·mar | \ ˈgra-mər

Definition of grammar

1a : the study of the classes of words, their inflections (see inflection sense 2), and their functions and relations in the sentence

b : a study of what is to be preferred and what avoided in inflection (see inflection sense 2) and syntax (see syntax sense 1)

2a : the characteristic system of inflections (see inflection sense 2) and syntax of a language

b : a system of rules that defines the grammatical structure of a language

3a : a grammar textbook

b : speech or writing evaluated according to its conformity to grammatical rules appalled at the bad grammar of college students

4 : the principles or rules of an art, science, or technique a grammar of the theater also : a set of such principles or rules

Other Words from grammar Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More About grammar

Keep scrolling for more

Examples of grammar in a Sentence

English grammar can be hard to master. comparing English and Japanese grammar comparing the grammars of English and Japanese “Him and I went” is bad grammar. I know some German, but my grammar isn't very good.

Recent Examples on the Web Candidate responses have not been edited for grammar, spelling or accuracy. — Amy Huschka, Detroit Free Press, 5 Aug. 2021 This is vintage Lockwood: animism, eroticism, and absurdity, equal parts surrealist subconscious and vernacular Americana, stretched to the limits of grammar. — Patrick Iber, The New Republic, 5 Aug. 2021 In this world, everything wears out with daily use—except the rules of grammar. — Wisława Szymborska, The New York Review of Books, 3 Aug. 2021 Language study involves much more than learning new words and rules of grammar. — David Buice, Dallas News, 20 July 2021 For example, at a time when most Americans felt that spelling and grammar should adhere to British usage rules, famed lexicographer Noah Webster aspired to popularize a standardized form of American English. — Barbara Spindel, The Christian Science Monitor, 16 July 2021 Even though a site may appear legitimate, look for signs of quick production, such as poor grammar. — al, 20 July 2021 Even though a site may appear legitimate, look for signs of quick production, such as poor grammar. — Trevor Fraser, orlandosentinel.com, 20 July 2021 One email passed along a list of mocking instances in which Banks' opponent used poor grammar. — Brian Slodysko, Star Tribune, 30 June 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'grammar.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.