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candygrammar
(foldoc) | candygrammar
A programming-language grammar that is mostly
syntactic sugar; a play on "candygram". COBOL, {Apple
Computer}'s Hypertalk language, and many 4GLs share this
property. The intent is to be as English-like as possible and
thus easier for unskilled people to program. However,
syntax isn't what makes programming hard; it's the mental
effort and organisation required to specify an algorithm
precisely. Thus "candygrammar" languages are just as
difficult to program in, and far more painful for the
experienced hacker.
GLS notes: The overtones from the 1977 Chevy Chase "Jaws"
parody on Saturday Night Live should not be overlooked.
Someone lurking outside an apartment door tries to get the
occupant to open up, while ominous music plays in the
background. The last attempt is a half-hearted "Candygram!"
When the door is opened, a shark bursts in and chomps the poor
occupant. There is a moral here for those attracted to
candygrammars.
[Jargon File]
(2004-09-23)
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candygrammar
(jargon) | candygrammar
n.
A programming-language grammar that is mostly syntactic sugar; the term
is also a play on ‘candygram’. COBOL, Apple's Hypertalk language, and a
lot of the so-called ‘4GL’ database languages share this property. The
usual intent of such designs is that they be as English-like as possible,
on the theory that they will then be easier for unskilled people to
program. This intention comes to grief on the reality that syntax isn't
what makes programming hard; it's the mental effort and organization
required to specify an algorithm precisely that costs. Thus the invariable
result is that ‘candygrammar’ languages are just as difficult to program in
as terser ones, and far more painful for the experienced hacker.
[The overtones from the old Chevy Chase skit on Saturday Night Live should
not be overlooked. This was a Jaws parody. Someone lurking outside an
apartment door tries all kinds of bogus ways to get the occupant to open
up, while ominous music plays in the background. The last attempt is a
half-hearted “Candygram!” When the door is opened, a shark bursts in and
chomps the poor occupant. [There is a similar gag in “Blazing Saddles”
—ESR] There is a moral here for those attracted to candygrammars. Note
that, in many circles, pretty much the same ones who remember Monty Python
sketches, all it takes is the word “Candygram!”, suitably timed, to get
people rolling on the floor. — GLS]
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