At what point does a config file become a programming language?

Question

I have been mulling over config files and their relationship to code for a while now and depending on the day and direction of the wind my opinions seem to change. More and mor

Answer 1

Every (sufficiently-long-lived) config file schema eventually becomes a programming language. Due to all the implications you describe, it is wise for the config-file designer to realize she is authoring a programming language and plan accordingly, lest she burden future users with bad legacy.