A Language Description is More than a Metamodel

A.G. Kleppe

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    Abstract

    Within the context of (software) language engineering, language descriptions are considered first class citizens. One of the ways to describe languages is by means of a metamodel, which represents the abstract syntax of the language. Unfortunately, in this process many language engineers forget the fact that a language also needs a concrete syntax and a semantics. In this paper I argue that neither of these can be discarded from a language description. In a good language description the abstract syntax is the central element, which functions as pivot between concrete syntax and semantics. Furthermore, both concrete syntax and semantics should be described in a well-defined formalism.
    Original languageEnglish
    Number of pages9
    Publication statusPublished - 2007
    Event4th International Workshop on Software Language Engineering, ATEM 2007 - Nashville, United States
    Duration: 1 Oct 20071 Oct 2007
    Conference number: 4

    Workshop

    Workshop4th International Workshop on Software Language Engineering, ATEM 2007
    Abbreviated titleATEM
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CityNashville
    Period1/10/071/10/07

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