In the realm of relational database management systems (RDBMS), SQL (Structured Query Language) and T-SQL (Transact-SQL) are often used interchangeably. However, they represent distinct yet interconnected components that play vital roles in database development and management. In this article, we'll delve into the key differences between SQL and T-SQL, shedding light on their respective features, functionalities, and use cases.
1. Structured Query Language (SQL)
A structured Query language is a computer language for a relational database system. Relational database system like MySQL, Oracle Sybase Informix uses SQL as standard database language for storing, retrieving, and manipulating data store in a relational database. Here are some SQL commands that are used for communication with databases, like storing, retrieving, and manipulating data.
SQL serves as the foundation of database querying, providing a standardized language for interacting with RDBMS. It offers a set of commands and syntax rules for performing various operations on relational databases, including data retrieval, insertion, updating, deletion, schema definition, and user management. SQL adheres to the ANSI SQL standard, ensuring a degree of portability and compatibility across different database platforms.
- Data definition language is used to create, drop, alter, and truncate in a database.
- Data manipulation language is used to insert, update, and delete data in the database.
- Data control language is used to Revoke and grant data.
- Transaction control language used for commit, and rollback data.
- Data Query language used for selecting data.
2. Transact structured Query language (T-SQL)
TSQL stands for Transact structured Query language, which is a Microsoft tool and extension of SQL language. TSQL is mainly used for writing an entire program of block function procedure that defines how things need to be completed and creating an application in which each application sends transact query over SQL server, and there is no interaction with the database. It executes as a whole block with the extension of SQL language. There are different types of T-SQL functions are used in T-SQL :
- Scalar function
- Ranking function
- Aggregate function
- Rowset function
Difference between SQL and T-SQL
| Sr. No. |
Basis of Comparison |
Structured Query language (SQL) |
Transact Structure Query language (T-SQL) |
| 1. |
Stands for |
It stands for Structured Query Language. |
It stands for Transact Structure Query Language. |
| 2. |
Developed by |
It is developed by IBM. |
It is developed by Microsoft. |
| 3. |
Definition |
The Structured Query language is used to look over data using queries. |
Transact Structure Query language is used for creating applications and adding business logic. |
| 4. |
Basic |
It is a non-procedural/declarative language |
It is a procedural language. |
| 5. |
Feature |
It is open-source. |
It is a proprietary standard owned by Microsoft. |
| 6. |
Embed |
You can embed SQL into TSQL. |
You cannot embed TSQL into SQL. |
| 7. |
Query Language |
SQL is a query language that serves the purpose of data manipulation. |
TSQL is a query language, but it is an extension of SQL that serves Microsoft SQL Server databases and software. |
| 8. |
Operations |
In Structured Query language, we perform DML and DDL operations. |
In Transact Structured Query, there is a block of codes that is used to write functions and procedures. |
| 9. |
Execute |
It executes a single statement. |
It executes as a whole block. |
| 10. |
Interaction with Server |
In SQL, there is interaction with the Database server. |
In TSQL, there is no interaction with the database server. |
| 11. |
Commands and functions |
The proper syntax is followed for commands like INSERT, SELECT, UPDATE, DELETE, and CREATE. |
Special functions are also part of TSQL like converted date() and some other functions which are not part of SQL. |
| 12. |
Usage |
It is mainly used to manipulate data and analyze data using simple queries. |
It is mainly used for creating an application logic. |
Conclusion
SQL and T-SQL represent two distinct yet interconnected components in the realm of database development and management. While SQL serves as the standardized language for relational database querying, T-SQL extends SQL with additional features, functionality, and procedural programming constructs tailored for Microsoft SQL Server environments. By understanding the differences between SQL and T-SQL, database developers and administrators can leverage the strengths of each language to build robust, efficient, and scalable database solutions that meet the needs of their organizations.