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]