Is it possible to write a language parser with AWK?

Question

I just recently started reading up on the AWK programming language, with the intent of creating a programming language parser with it, since it is generally used as a Text processor and/or for pattern matching. I had the thought, "If this language is used for pattern matching, and processing text, couldn't it be used to process a source file for specific statements such as for / if / while keywords and phrases, and then perform the given action, and pass it off to a lexer, or something of the sort?" I've done some research online, but i'm unable to find any kind of information on this subject.

Answer 1

AWK can be used to create Language grammars when you combine it with other Linux/Unix tools such as sed and shell (BASH/KSH) programming. Typically though other tools are better suited like python, Groovy, Perl, or GO. Each of these languages are better suited to language processing than AWK.