Both SQL and T-SQL are query language used to control database. They are quite a vital part of DBMS. The close relationship is what confuses a lot of people.
The article provides a core difference between SQL and T-SQL with a comparison chart to facilitate an easier understanding. Let’s find out:

SQL Meaning
SQL is an abbreviation of Structured Query Language. It is mainly used in the database and its DBMS. The programming language has the ability to control and manipulate data.
SQL is quite suitable where database entails a large amount of data. It is normally implemented on the database that is driven by a database engine. The main role of the database is to ensure accuracy and efficiency of the result.
SQL has two commands such as Data Definition Language meant for defining and modifying several data structures and Data Manipulation Language for accessing and manipulating the stored data.
T-SQL Meaning
T-SQL is an extension of SQL and it is a procedural language which normally used by SQL server. It is quite essential in the retrieval of data from a single row, insertion of new rows, and retrieval of multiple rows.
It has a syntax that is quite different from other programming language but it tends to have the same functionality and generate the same results.
Comparison Chart
Basic Terms | SQL | T-SQL |
Basic Meaning | Non-procedural language | Procedural language |
Functions provided | Are provided with data manipulation and controlling function | Are provided with procedural programming language and local variable. |
Feature | Open language | Proprietary |
Submission of Query | One at a time | Bulk submission |
Special Features | Has several DDL, DML and other operational functions. | DDL, DML, transaction control, error and exception handling. |
Derived | Based programming language | Derived from SQL to form an extension. |
Embedding | Can be embedded into T-SQL | Cannot be embedded |
Development Companies | IBM | Microsoft. |
Standards | Structured Query Language | Transact-SQL |
Year of Development | The 1970s | 2014 |
Core Differences
- SQL is a programming language while T-SQL is an extension of SQL
- SQL has an open language while T-SQL is a proprietary
- T-SQL contain procedural programming and local variable among others, unlike SQL.
- SQL submit query one by one while T-SQL submit data in bulk.
- SQL can be embedded into T-SQL but T-SQL cannot be embedded into SQL.
Comparison Video
Summary of SQL Vs T-SQL
The core difference between SQL and T-SQL is that SQL is a programming language while T-SQL is an extension of SQL. I hope the article has been useful to answer the question.
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