TextMate Grammars

TextMate Grammars are JSON or YAML-based language definitions used by text editors and IDEs to provide syntax highlighting, code folding, and other language-specific features. They define patterns for tokenizing source code into scopes, which editors then style with colors and fonts. Originally developed for the TextMate editor, they have become a widely adopted standard in tools like Visual Studio Code, Atom, and Sublime Text.

Also known as: TM Grammars, TextMate Language Definitions, Syntax Highlighting Grammars, TextMate Scope Definitions, TMG

Why learn TextMate Grammars?

Developers should learn TextMate Grammars when creating or customizing syntax highlighting for programming languages, markup languages, or configuration files in supported editors. This is particularly useful for working with niche or custom languages, improving readability in codebases, or contributing to editor extensions. It enables precise control over how code is displayed, enhancing the development experience in text-based environments.

Learning Resources

• docs: TextMate Manual: Language Grammars
• tutorial: Visual Studio Code: Syntax Highlighting Guide
• video: Creating a TextMate Grammar - YouTube Tutorial
• docs: TextMate Grammars on GitHub
• docs: Sublime Text: Syntax Definitions