what is grammar ? compare descriptive grammar with prescriptive grammar

Grammar is the system of a language and is the way words are organized and manipulated to achieve particular effects. It includes the structure of words, phrases, clauses, and sentences, right up to the structure of whole texts.

There are two main types of grammar: descriptive and prescriptive.

1. Descriptive Grammar: This type of grammar refers to the structure of a language as it's actually used by speakers and writers. It doesn't make judgments about what's 'correct' or 'incorrect', but instead observes how language is used in practice. Descriptive grammar might include colloquialisms, slang, and spoken syntax that may not be grammatically 'correct' but is commonly used and understood.

2. Prescriptive Grammar: This type of grammar lays out rules about what language should be like. It's about how people think language should be used, and it includes things like rules of syntax, spelling, and punctuation. Prescriptive grammar is often taught in school settings and tends to be more formal and standardized.

In comparison, descriptive grammar is more about observing the practical use of language without judgment, while prescriptive grammar is about enforcing rules and standards for language use.