📋

Description

This error, identified by SQLSTATE 42000, indicates a syntax issue where a specific keyword, option, or clause is used in an invalid context or position within a SQL statement. It typically occurs when the MariaDB server cannot parse the statement due to a violation of SQL grammar rules for the given operation, often pointing to `ER_CANT_USE_OPTION_HERE`.

💬

Error Message

Incorrect usage/placement of '%s'

🔍

Known Causes

3 known causes

⚠️

Misplaced SQL Keyword or Option

A common cause is placing a SQL keyword, option, or clause in a position where it is not syntactically allowed or expected by the MariaDB parser within the current statement type.

⚠️

Invalid Context for Clause

The error can occur when a specific SQL clause or function is used within a statement type or subquery where it is explicitly prohibited or has no logical meaning according to MariaDB's SQL grammar.

⚠️

Incorrect Statement Order

SQL statements often require clauses to appear in a specific order (e.g., WHERE before GROUP BY, ORDER BY last). Violating this predefined order will trigger a syntax error.

🛠️

Solutions

4 solutions available

1. Review and Correct SQL Statement Syntax easy

Carefully examine your SQL query for misplaced keywords, operators, or identifiers.

1

Identify the exact SQL statement that is causing the error. The error message should provide context about the problematic part, often indicated by '%s'.

2

Break down the SQL query into smaller parts and check the syntax of each clause (SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, etc.). Pay close attention to commas, parentheses, quotes, and reserved keywords.

3

Ensure that functions, operators, and identifiers are used in their correct context. For example, a `WHERE` clause should not contain an aggregate function without a `GROUP BY` clause.

4

If you are using string literals, ensure they are enclosed in single quotes (`'`) and that any internal single quotes are properly escaped (e.g., `''`).

5

Re-write or correct the problematic part of the SQL statement. For instance, if you see `SELECT column1, column2 FROM table WHERE column1 = 'value'`, and the error points to the comma, ensure it's placed correctly between `column1` and `column2`.

SELECT column1, column2 FROM my_table WHERE id = 123;

2. Validate Table and Column Names easy

Verify that all referenced tables and columns exist and are spelled correctly.

1

Check the SQL statement for table and column names that might be misspelled or are not present in the database schema.

2

Use the `SHOW TABLES;` command to list all tables in the current database and `DESCRIBE table_name;` (or `SHOW COLUMNS FROM table_name;`) to view the columns of a specific table.

SHOW TABLES;
DESCRIBE my_table;

3

Compare the names in your query with the actual names from the schema. If a table or column name is incorrect, update the SQL statement accordingly.

4

If table or column names contain special characters or are reserved words, ensure they are properly quoted using backticks (` `).

SELECT `my-column` FROM `my-table`;

3. Inspect Reserved Keywords Usage medium

Ensure MariaDB reserved keywords are not used as identifiers without proper quoting.

1

Review your SQL query for any words that are reserved keywords in MariaDB (e.g., `SELECT`, `FROM`, `WHERE`, `TABLE`, `INDEX`, `ORDER`, `GROUP`, `CREATE`, `ALTER`, `DROP`, `INSERT`, `UPDATE`, `DELETE`, `LIMIT`, `OFFSET`).

2

If a reserved keyword is being used as a table name, column name, or alias, it must be enclosed in backticks (` `).

SELECT id, `order` FROM orders WHERE `order` = 'completed';

3

Consult the MariaDB documentation for a comprehensive list of reserved words for your specific MariaDB version to avoid potential conflicts.

4. Analyze Complex Queries with a SQL Formatter/Linter medium

Utilize external tools to identify and fix syntax errors in intricate SQL statements.

1

For very long or complex SQL queries, manual syntax checking can be error-prone. Copy the problematic SQL statement into a dedicated SQL formatter or linter.

2

Many online SQL formatters and linters are available (e.g., SQLFormat, SQL Beautifier, online SQL validators). Paste your query into one of these tools.

3

The tool will often highlight syntax errors, suggest corrections, and improve the readability of your query. Pay attention to any reported issues.

4

Apply the suggested fixes or manually correct the syntax based on the tool's feedback.

🔗

Related Errors

5 related errors

MariaDB Error 1234: Incorrect Syntax Usage