LEXICAL STRUCTURE Meaning and
Definition
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Lexical structure refers to the set of rules and patterns that dictate how words and symbols are combined to form meaningful expressions in a given programming language. It encompasses the syntax and grammar rules that determine how the code is written and organized.
In programming, lexical structure represents the first phase of language interpretation or compilation. It involves analyzing the source code to identify individual tokens or lexemes, which are the basic building blocks of the language. These lexemes include keywords, identifiers, operators, literals, delimiters, and other elements that constitute the vocabulary of the language.
Lexical structure defines the rules for forming valid tokens. It specifies how white spaces, comments, and line breaks are handled, and distinguishes between different types of tokens. For example, in a programming language, a lexical rule might state that an identifier must begin with a letter and can be followed by any combination of letters, digits, or underscores.
By adhering to the lexical structure rules, programmers ensure that their code is correctly interpreted by the language's compiler or interpreter. Any violations of these rules can result in syntax errors, preventing the code from executing properly.
Understanding the lexical structure of a programming language is essential for writing correct and readable code, as it provides the framework within which programmers express their algorithms and instructions.
Common Misspellings for LEXICAL STRUCTURE
- kexical structure
- pexical structure
- oexical structure
- lwxical structure
- lsxical structure
- ldxical structure
- lrxical structure
- l4xical structure
- l3xical structure
- lezical structure
- lecical structure
- ledical structure
- lesical structure
- lexucal structure
- lexjcal structure
- lexkcal structure
- lexocal structure
- lex9cal structure
- lex8cal structure
- lexixal structure
Etymology of LEXICAL STRUCTURE
The word "lexical" comes from the Greek word "lexis", which means "word" or "speech". It is derived from the Greek verb "legein", which means "to speak" or "to say". The term "lexical" refers to anything related to words or vocabulary.
The word "structure" is derived from the Latin word "structura", which means "arrangement" or "construction". It ultimately comes from the Latin verb "struere", which means "to build" or "to arrange".
Therefore, the term "lexical structure" refers to the arrangement or construction of words or vocabulary within a certain language or system.
