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]
[glossary]
[Reference(s) to this entry by made by: {COBOL fingers}{syntactic salt}{syntactic sugar}]