Syllable structure refers to the way syllables are organized within words. A syllable typically consists of a vowel sound, which can be accompanied by consonants. The basic structure can be broken down into three parts: the onset (initial consonants), the nucleus (the vowel), and the coda (final consonants). For example, in the word cat, the onset is the consonant c, the nucleus is the vowel a, and there is no coda. Different languages have varying syllable structures, which can affect pronunciation and rhythm. Some languages, like Japanese, often use simple syllables, while others, like English, allow for more complex combinations. Understanding syllable structure is essential for language learning, poetry, and phonetics, as it helps in recognizing patterns in speech and writing.