Spread Syntax or Spread Operator: Which Term is Semantically Correct?

Spread Syntax vs. Operator: A Linguistics Debate

The ellipsis "..." in ECMAScript has been the subject of linguistic debate, with terms like "spread syntax" and "spread operator" being used interchangeably. While "spread operator" has gained wider popularity, the question remains: Which term is semantically correct?

Arguments Against "Spread Operator"

Despite its popularity, the term "spread operator" doesn't fit the classical definition of an operator in programming languages, which typically refers to built-in functions that take arguments and return single values. Spread syntax, however, does not meet this criterion as it spreads iterable elements or arguments as separate values.

Moreover, the ECMAScript 2015 Language Specification does not explicitly mention "..." as an operator but rather defines it as syntax for array literals and function calls.

The Case for "Spread Syntax"

In contrast, "spread syntax" more accurately reflects the role of "..." in expanding arrays or arguments. The "..." punctuator becomes part of the language's grammar, defining valid combinations of symbols, similar to how the arrow function (=>) is considered syntax rather than an operator.

Array Destructuring Assignment

Spread syntax is also used in array destructuring assignment:

const [foo, ...bar] = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5];

In this context, "..." assigns multiple values to the variable "bar," fitting with its role as an extension to array initializers.

Conclusion

Based on linguistic analysis, the term "spread syntax" is a more accurate and comprehensive description of the "..." punctuator in ECMAScript. While "spread operator" has become common usage, it does not fully capture the syntactical nature of the functionality.

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