Programming languages, much like human languages, have their own specific grammar and syntax rules. In JavaScript, it's no different. It's important to adhere to these guidelines, as deviating or overlooking them results in syntax errors. In this lesson, we'll be delving into these syntax errors - exploring their nature, how to identify them, and, more importantly, how to correct them.

Syntax errors are the programming equivalent of grammatical errors in writing. They usually occur when we unknowingly transgress JavaScript's grammatical rules. Trivial occurrences like forgetting a semicolon at the end of a statement or a closing bracket can trigger such errors. When JavaScript detects a syntax error in your code, it immediately halts execution and throws an error message detailing the type and location of the error. Let’s look at an example:

In the example above, there's a missing closing quote, which leads to a syntax error. Default JavaScript error messaging helps to point out that error.

One of the primary uses of semicolons in JavaScript is to separate multiple statements, allowing them to coexist on one line. Failing to include a semicolon where it's needed can cause a syntax error. Here's an example to illustrate this:

Note that all code lines in the example lack a semicolon at the end, causing JavaScript to return a syntax error.

Often overlooked, missing or mismatched brackets also contribute to syntax errors. For every opening bracket in your code, there must be a corresponding closing counterpart.