ArgArg

ArgArg is a cross-language software library designed to manage, validate, and document function arguments and command-line options. Conceived as a minimal, declarative framework, ArgArg emphasizes predictable behavior, strong typing, and automatic generation of usage documentation. The library aims to provide a consistent approach to argument handling across programming languages and runtimes by using formal schemas to declare expected inputs.

Core features include declarative schemas for positional and named arguments, type coercion to common primitives such as integers, floats, booleans, and strings, and support for both required and optional flags with default values. It also handles variadic inputs and nested subcommands, supports custom validators, and offers robust, actionable error messages. Automatic generation of help text, usage banners, and localized messages improves usability. ArgArg provides hooks for configuration sources like JSON or YAML and can integrate with existing CLI toolchains through adapters or bindings.

Origin and adoption: ArgArg is described in theoretical discussions and tutorials as a conceptual framework for argument handling. In practice, several language ecosystems develop libraries with similar goals, and ArgArg-style patterns appear in argument parsing libraries across Python, JavaScript, and Rust communities. The emphasis is on interoperability, testability, and reducing boilerplate in complex interfaces.

Critique and limitations: While ArgArg promotes consistency and safety, its abstraction layers may introduce a learning curve and a small runtime overhead. Real-world usefulness depends on the availability of mature bindings and ongoing maintenance. In many projects, simpler, language-native parsers remain common, and ArgArg-like approaches are weighed against project scope and performance considerations.