candygrammar

A programming-language grammar that is mostly syntacticsugar; the term is also a play on "candygram". COBOL,

Apple Computer'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 organisation 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 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]

[Jargon File]

(2001-06-22)