Documentation artifact that defines a programming language
Also known as programming language definition · programming language standard · language specification · language standard
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3 identifiers linking programming language specification across the web's reference databases
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In computer programming, a programming language specification is a specification language or documentation artifact that defines a programming language so that users and implementors can agree on what programs in that language mean. Specifications are typically detailed and formal, and primarily used by implementors, with users referring to them in case of ambiguity; the C++ specification is frequently cited by users, for instance, due to the complexity. Related documentation includes a programming language reference, which is intended expressly for users, and a programming language rationale, which explains why the specification is written as it is; these are typically more informal than a specification.