candygrammar

n. 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 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.