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Ambiguity Detection

rascal-0.40.17

Synopsis​

Ambiguity detection helps to find ambiguities in syntax definitions.

Description​

AmbiDexter is a tool that analyzes Syntax Definitions, including their Disambiguations, to try and determine which ambiguities it contains. Static detection of ambiguity is not decidable, nevertheless AmbiDexter does a fine job at finding them.

Benefits​

  • AmbiDexter can find ambiguity for you before testing the parser, after which you can use Ambiguity Diagnosis to explain it.

Pitfalls​

  • AmbiDexter is now a separate command-line tool which still needs integration
  • AmbiDexter is not a silver bullet. It has a time-limit to stop after having searcher only so much of a language. After the time limit has expired, your Syntax Definition may still be ambiguous.