资料来源 : Free On-Line Dictionary of Computing
candygrammar
A programming-language grammar that is mostly {syntactic
sugar}; 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)