Why can't Regular Expressions use keywords instead of characters?

Question

Okay, I barely understand RegEx basics, but why couldn\'t they design it to use keywords (like SQL) instead of some cryptic wildcard characters and symbols?

Is it for pe

Answer 1

For some reason, my previous answer got deleted. Anyway, i thing ruby regexp machine would fit the bill, at http://www.rubyregexp.sf.net. It is my own project, but i think it should work.