When Chomsky Met JavaScript - Exploring the Linguistics Behind Regular Expressions

Explore the fascinating journey of regular expressions from their linguistic roots to their powerful implementation in JavaScript in this 17-minute conference talk from JSConf EU 2018. Delve into the Chomsky Hierarchy, discover the concept of regular grammar, and understand how these linguistic theories shaped the development of regular expressions in programming. Learn about the unique features of regular expressions in JavaScript, including back references, and gain the confidence to start crafting your own. By unraveling the linguistic theory behind regular expressions, empower yourself to master this often perplexing but incredibly useful programming technique.

Intro
Regular Expressions
The Chomsky Hierarchy
Parseltongue
Regular grammar
Regular expressions in programming
Regular expressions in JavaScript
Back references in JavaScript