Clauses, which are constituent components of statements and queries. (In some cases, these are optional.)[17]
Expressions, which can produce either scalar values, or tables consisting of columns and rows of data
Predicates, which specify conditions that can be evaluated to SQL three-valued logic (3VL) (true/false/unknown) or Boolean truth values and are used to limit the effects of statements and queries, or to change program flow.
Queries, which retrieve the data based on specific criteria. This is an important element of SQL.
Statements, which may have a persistent effect on schemata and data, or may control transactions, program flow, connections, sessions, or diagnostics.
SQL statements also include the semicolon (";") statement terminator. Though not required on every platform, it is defined as a standard part of the SQL grammar.