What aspect of language does syntax refer to?

Syntax refers specifically to the arrangement of words in sentences to create meaning. It governs how different parts of speech, such as nouns, verbs, and adjectives, combine to form grammatically correct and meaningful sentences. Understanding syntax is essential for effective language structure, as it influences clarity and the logical flow of ideas in communication. This aspect is crucial for learners of English, as mastering syntax helps them construct sentences that convey their intended messages accurately and coherently.

In comparing this to the other choices, word meaning is related to semantics and does not address how sentences are structured. Figures of speech pertain to stylistic elements that enhance language but do not define the rules for sentence construction. Clarity of communication is a broader concept that can be influenced by syntax, but it encompasses more than just the structural arrangement of words.