Within programming, what does the term "syntax" refer to?

The term "syntax" in programming refers to the rules that define the structure of the code, including how statements are formed and organized. This encompasses the correct arrangement of symbols, keywords, and operators in a programming language. Each programming language has its own specific syntax rules that must be followed to ensure that the code compiles or interprets successfully.

Understanding syntax is fundamental for programmers because any deviation from the established rules can lead to errors, preventing the program from running properly. For example, forgetting a semicolon in languages like C++ or Java can trigger a syntax error.

The other options involve different aspects of programming: the meaning of statements pertains to semantics, the efficiency of execution is related to performance considerations, and comments are non-executable lines that provide explanations or notes in the code. None of these elements define syntax directly; rather, they address other important programming concepts.