fourth-generation language Last modified: Friday, November 21, 2003
Often abbreviated 4GL, fourth-generation languages are programming languages closer to human languages than typical high-level programming languages. Most 4GLs are used to access databases. For example, a typical 4GL command is FIND ALL RECORDS WHERE NAME IS "SMITH" The other four generations of computer languages are first generation: machine language second generation: assembly language third generation: high-level programming languages, such as C, C++, and Java. fifth generation: languages used for artificial intelligence and neural networks.
•E-mail this definition to a colleague• For internet.com pages about fourth-generation language . Also check out the following links! Article on learning fourth-generation languages  Article by James Elliot entitled, "The Paradoxes and Advantages of Using Fourth Generation Languages," that provides descriptions of the nature of the language and expertise, and mastering the 4GL. (July 1995)	Artificial Intelligence Databases Programming Languages database management system natural language programming language query query language Give Us Your Feedback Shopping fourth generation language Products Compare Products,Prices and Stores Shop by Category: PlayStation 3 Games 3 Model Matches Software 1 Store Offers Xbox 360 Games 3 Model Matches