candygrammar

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]
    

candygrammar

   <language> 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)