GNU M4
GNU M4 is an implementation of the M4 macro processor. It is used for text processing and can generate program source code and other text documents from macros. M4 macros allow reuse and abstraction of text snippets.
macro-processor
text-processing
code-generation
GNU M4: Implementation of M4 Macro Processor
M4 macro processor implementation for text processing, generating program source code, and creating text documents through reusable macros.
What is GNU M4?
GNU M4 is an open source implementation of the M4 macro processor. It is commonly used as a general-purpose text processor, particularly for generating program source code and other types of text documents from macros.
Some key features and capabilities of GNU M4 include:
- Portability - Runs on various Unix/Linux systems as well as Windows
- Extensive built-in functions - String handling, arithmetic, file inclusion, conditionals, etc.
- User-defined macros - New macros can be defined to customize functionality
- Robust macro processing engine - Can process complex nested macros and run without memory leaks
- Batch processing - Can process multiple files via command line
- Debugging features - Trace macro execution to troubleshoot issues
GNU M4 is a versatile tool for creating tailored text processing solutions. Common applications include:
- Building customized programming languages and development frameworks
- Configuring software packages to target multiple environments
- Applying reuse and DRY principles for documentation and texts
- Text reporting and automated document generation
Overall, GNU M4 simplifies many text-related tasks through user-defined macros and out-of-the-box functions suited for text transformation and substitution.
GNU M4 Features
Features
- Macro processing language
- Text processing and substitution
- Conditional statements and loops
- Built-in functions
- Extensible with user-defined macros
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Lightweight and fast
Powerful macro capabilities
Portable to many platforms
Integrates well with autoconf/automake
Free and open source
Cons
Steep learning curve
Macro language is arcane
Limited debugging capabilities
Not suitable for complex programs
Official Links
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