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Exp

rascal-0.40.17

Synopsis​

A hello world demo of syntax and language definition simplicity. It illustrates how to define concrete and abstract syntax and how to use concrete and abstract pattern matching to evaluate expressions.

Description​

The example language is called "Exp". It contains the following elements:

  • Integer constants, e.g., 123.
  • A multiplication operator, e.g., 3*4.
  • An addition operator, e.g., 3+4.
  • Multiplication is left-associative and has precedence over addition.
  • Addition is left-associative.
  • Parentheses can be used to override the precedence of the operators.

We demonstrate three different designs for implementing this language. Each alternative has its benefits and pitfalls. You can compare them to learn about the trade-offs.

Examples​

These are example sentences that are part of the Exp language:

  • 123
  • 2+3+4
  • 2+3*4
  • (2+3)*4

Because you can guess what they should mean (their semantics), you should be able to follow the interpreter code that implements the semantics.

Benefits​

  • Exp is nice and simple and can show you core ideas of language design and implementation

Pitfalls​

  • Some more concepts are needed when a language grows beyond simple arithmetic expressions.