Bython: Add Braces to Python with a Simple Preprocessor

What is Bython?

Bython is a preprocessor that allows writing Python code with C‑style curly braces. Files with the .by extension are translated into standard .py files with correct indentation before execution. It does not introduce a new language; the generated code runs on any Python interpreter and can use existing libraries such as NumPy, Matplotlib, and others.

Key features

Eliminates indentation‑related syntax errors; mixed tabs/spaces or copied code no longer cause immediate crashes.

Full compatibility with the Python ecosystem; no changes to third‑party packages are required.

Installation

From PyPI: sudo -H pip3 install bython From source:

git clone https://github.com/mathialo/bython.git
cd bython
sudo -H pip3 install .

Uninstall:

sudo -H pip3 uninstall bython

Usage

Run a Bython program: bython source.by arg1 arg2 ... Show help and options:

bython -h
man bython

Convert an existing Python file to Bython syntax: py2by test.py This creates test.by from test.py.

How it works

The preprocessor reads a .by file, parses the brace‑delimited blocks, and emits a temporary .py file with proper indentation.

The generated file is then executed by the system Python interpreter, so a functional Python environment must be available.

Repository

Source code: https://github.com/mathialo/bython

Limitations

Bython is intended for experimentation or personal preference. Production code should follow standard Python indentation to maintain readability and community conventions.