What is a syntax error?

A syntax error occurs when the code does not conform to the grammatical rules of the programming language being used. This includes issues such as missing punctuation, improperly structured expressions, or incorrect keyword usage. When a programmer creates syntax that cannot be understood by the interpreter or compiler, it halts execution and typically prompts an error message indicating the line where the problem occurred.

This type of error is distinct from other potential issues that might arise in a program. For instance, operation timing errors pertain to when certain processes occur and are not strictly related to the code structure. Similarly, memory allocation problems reflect issues in how resources are managed during code execution rather than how the code is written. Lastly, logical mistakes involve flaws in the reasoning of the programming logic, leading to incorrect outcomes even when the code is syntactically correct. Thus, the essence of a syntax error lies in the violation of the language's syntax rules, making the chosen answer the best fit.