In computing, a programming language specification is an artifact that defines a programming language so that users and implementors can agree on what programs in that language mean.
A programming language specification can take several forms, including the following:
- An explicit definition of the syntax and semantics of the language. While syntax is commonly specified using a formal grammar, semantic definitions may be written in natural language (e.g., the approach taken for the C language), or a formal semantics (e.g., the Standard MLand Scheme specifications).
- A description of the behavior of a translator for the language (e.g., the C++ and Fortran). The syntax and semantics of the language has to be inferred from this description, which may be written in natural or a formal language.
- A model implementation, sometimes written in the language being specified (e.g., the Prolog). The syntax and semantics of the language are explicit in the behavior of the model implementation.
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