Which term describes the rules for combining or arranging words into grammatically sensible sentences?

The term that describes the rules for combining or arranging words into grammatically sensible sentences is syntax. Syntax involves the structure of sentences and the rules that govern how words are put together to convey meaning effectively. It dictates the order of words, ensuring that phrases and sentences are constructed in a way that makes sense according to the grammatical conventions of a language.

Understanding syntax is crucial for both understanding and producing language because it allows individuals to form sentences that are coherent and can be understood by others. This aspect of language is more focused on the arrangement and form of sentences rather than the meanings of individual words or the broader context of communication. Other related terms, such as grammar, encompass a broader range of rules, including both syntax and other components such as morphology and punctuation, while semantics deals with the meaning of words and phrases. Pragmatics focuses on the use of language in social contexts and the implications of meaning beyond the literal interpretation.