Programming Kotlin

Kotlin for Internal DSLs

Kotlin is a wonderful language for creating internal DSLs. Static typing generally poses some strong limitations on a language’s ability to serve as a host for internal DSLs. Surprisingly, though, some of Kotlin’s unique capabilities not found in other statically typed languages push the limits to make creating internal DSLs not only possible but a pleasant experience as well. Let’s quickly review some of the capabilities of Kotlin that will serve as your allies when designing DSLs.

Optional Semicolon

Kotlin doesn’t insist on semicolons—see ​Semicolon Is Optional​. That’s a clear benefit for fluency. A semicolon disrupts flow and is noise in a lot of situations. Not having to use it is especially critical for creating ...