Which characteristic best describes an object-oriented programming language?

An object-oriented programming language is best characterized by its focus on encapsulation of data and functions. This concept means that an object-oriented programming language organizes software design around data, or objects, rather than functions and logic. Each object combines both data and methods that operate on that data, allowing for a more modular and reusable approach to programming.

Encapsulation helps in bundling the data (attributes) and the methods (functions) that manipulate that data within the same unit or class. This property also promotes data hiding, ensuring that an object's internal state can only be changed by its methods, which enhances security and reduces complexity in programming. By encapsulating the data and the ways it can be manipulated, developers can create interactions that are clearer and more manageable.

Other options do not accurately capture the essence of object-oriented programming. For instance, focusing solely on functions does not align with the fundamental principles of OOP, where objects are just as significant as functions. Saying that syntax matters are irrelevant goes against the necessity of having structured syntax within programming languages. Lastly, the elimination of variable types contradicts the principles of programming, as maintaining types is essential for the organization and functionality of object-oriented languages.