a realistic compiler generator based on high-level semantics: another progress report
We have developed a new style of semantic definition called high-level semantics . In constrast to traditional denotational semantics, high-level semantics is suitable for both defining the functional meaning of programming languages, as well as describing realistic compiler implementations . Moreover, high-level specifications are considerably more descriptive and intelligible than traditional specifications. This paper describes the compiler generator MESS, which embodies the principles of high-level semantics. MESS has been used to generate compilers for nontrivial languages. The compilers are efficient, and produce object programs that are competitive with those generated by hand-written compilers.
compilation generation semantic definition denotational semantics functional program programming language language paper efficiency object competition