A High-Level Language

The definition of a relational system and Codd's rules, require that a single language—sometimes called a comprehensive data sublanguage—be able to handle all communications with the database. In the commercial world of relational database management, that language is SQL.

SQL is used for three kinds of operations:

  • Data manipulation

  • Data definition

  • Data administration

Every manipulation, definition, or administrative operation is expressed as a SQL statement or command. SQL is called a high-level language because its English-like commands are far from the 1's and 0's of the low-level (close to the machine) commands you find in more basic languages.

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