Ruby GLI CLI localization is the work of making a git-like command-line application understandable across languages without turning translated words into unsupported commands. Readers searching for Ruby GLI command DSL, desc, long_desc, flag, switch, nested subcommands, multilingual help and CLI validation need to separate real parser tokens from reader-friendly explanations. GLI builds command suites and generates help from registered commands, options and descriptions. A translated summary can help a user choose an operation, but it does not automatically rename that operation or change the value the parser accepts.
Consider a read-only collection-preview tool used by a distributed research team. It exposes a list command, an optional limit flag and a verbose switch. Users working in Arabic, Spanish or Japanese should understand what the list operation returns, which switches they can type and how to recover from an invalid value. If a help page translates a flag name into an unregistered word, or prints an attractive table while hiding a mandatory positional argument, the user may be stranded at the terminal. Worse, translated examples can lead someone to run the wrong subcommand.
This guide explains GLI’s command tree, global and command-specific option scopes, descriptions, aliases, defaults, type conversion, help generation and package release checks. It uses practical, non-destructive examples and treats errors as problems that must tell readers what to do next. The goal is educational nonfiction grounded in GLI’s actual DSL and an installed Ruby executable: test the command, understand the result and recover without reading the source code.
Quick answer: Ruby GLI translation rules
- Keep registered commands, option spellings and stable values literal; translate their explanations.
- Describe global and child-specific scopes accurately, including flags versus switches.
- Validate help, defaults, constraints and Unicode through the installed Ruby executable.
- Check the packaged gem and require independent user success plus meaningful error recovery.
A small educational example: the GLI command DSL
GLI can scaffold a sample using its documented init command. Then its DSL declares a command, short description, a value-bearing flag and a Boolean switch. The following schematic Ruby example emphasizes how options and arguments reach the action; adapt it to your generated launcher and installed gem version rather than treating it as a universal startup file. The example intentionally prints a read-only summary. Do not place production credentials or destructive maintenance tasks into a first localization exercise.
require 'gli'
include GLI::App
program_desc 'Read-only collection preview'
desc 'Show a preview of collection entries'
arg :collection
command :list do |c|
c.desc 'Maximum number of entries to show'
c.arg_name 'COUNT'
c.flag :limit, default_value: '10'
c.desc 'Show extra preview details'
c.switch :verbose
c.action do |global_options, options, args|
puts "Collection: #{args.first}; limit: #{options[:limit]}; verbose: #{options[:verbose]}"
end
end
exit run(ARGV)In this example the value-bearing limit remains a string unless the application or a configured conversion converts it. Production code should validate it before using it for a numeric operation. Confirm the actual generated help and values in a test run, then attach translated descriptions through an application-defined resource strategy. A string that sounds local does not automatically become a new command or flag. Copy only verified executable invocations into your public guide.
GLI field guide: from a command tree to multilingual help
1. The meaning of GLI
What the framework does. GLI is the Git-Like Interface command-line parser for Ruby. It wraps command-line parsing into a DSL intended for applications with multiple commands and potentially nested subcommands. Generated documentation is a central feature, not an afterthought. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. A catalogue tool can expose list, inspect and help as literal verbs. Translate their purposes into the reader’s language but do not invent a command name based on the translation. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Use the installed executable to view the root synopsis and command-specific help. Confirm the full command route before teaching it. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
2. Scaffold and first command
What the framework does. The upstream project documents the gli init scaffold generator, which creates an executable, gemspec, test starter, Gemfile and help scaffolding. It is a starting point, not proof the resulting descriptions are finished. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Use a harmless sample such as gli init collection list inspect, then replace every filler description with accurate task-oriented help before public distribution. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run the generated executable with help and inspect both global and child help. Remove sample commands and stale text that are not real product features. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
3. GLI::App and the DSL
What the framework does. GLI::App provides application-level configuration while GLI::DSL supplies declarations for commands, options and descriptions. The active installed version determines supported hooks and settings. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. An app’s public guide should introduce what list does, how the user selects it and what inputs it requires. Implementation details are useful to maintainers but should not bury the first working command. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run a small read-only executable and compare the parsed result with the human explanation. Verify library version and invocation style. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
4. desc as short guidance
What the framework does. The desc method describes the next command, flag or switch. It is not a command alias and is not a validator. Its key job is to let a reader identify an action quickly. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Use an accurate short sentence such as List matching collection entries without changing them. Avoid decorative slogans that give no information about accepted inputs. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Render the help and ask a new reader to identify the right operation from summaries alone. If they must guess, revise the wording. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
5. long_desc as deeper help
What the framework does. The long_desc method supplies more detailed explanatory text, which the help renderer can wrap. It is the place for a useful example, limitations and one recovery instruction. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Explain whether list uses the local cache, whether a limit is optional and how unknown values are handled. Put the exact syntax in a separate readable line. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test long descriptions at wide and narrow terminal widths. Ensure line wrapping preserves technical tokens and does not hide mandatory arguments. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
6. Command declaration and names
What the framework does. The command DSL registers command names and can accept aliases as multiple names. Every added alias becomes real syntax and may collide with another command or option. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Show canonical list and an alternative only when it was actually registered. An Arabic explanation of list is not itself an Arabic command token. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run canonical and alias routes, then compare the action called. Check collisions and deprecated names in all subcommand levels. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
7. Nested commands
What the framework does. GLI supports deep command structures, which makes command hierarchy an important part of accurate help. Root help can tell readers that a task exists without telling them the complete invocation. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. For a route such as collection list recent, explain each segment and the purpose of the final operation. Avoid treating a nested route as a single translated phrase. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test root, parent and leaf help. Run each documented route with safe data, noting where command-specific flags belong. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
8. Global options and child options
What the framework does. A GLI action receives global options separately from command-specific options, along with remaining arguments. These scopes are not interchangeable in a real invocation. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Explain whether verbose belongs before the command as a global switch or after it as an operation-specific option. A screenshot of help alone may not reveal the scope to a beginner. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run valid and deliberately misplaced options in the supported parser mode. Inspect the two option hashes and document observed behavior. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
9. Flag versus switch
What the framework does. GLI’s flag takes an argument, while switch represents an on-or-off setting. Translating both as option can hide a crucial difference in what users must type. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. A limit flag needs a value, while verbose can be a standalone switch. Write one complete example of each with real syntax and a visible result. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test missing flag values, supplied values and switch presence. Make the help distinguish them clearly in each language. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
10. arg_name and placeholders
What the framework does. The arg_name DSL method describes the value associated with the next flag; it is primarily a help-display cue and should be short. Its effect is not to change how arguments are parsed. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Use COUNT or file as a compact placeholder and translate its meaning in the accompanying sentence. Avoid a long phrase with spaces that makes the generated synopsis confusing. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Generate help, then ask a reader to replace the placeholder with an actual value. Confirm they do not type the placeholder literally. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
11. arg annotations for positionals
What the framework does. The arg DSL method describes positional arguments to the next command; annotations like optional or multiple influence the help synopsis, not parsing enforcement by themselves. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. If a list action expects a collection name, show a filled-in example and implement the requiredness check in the command as appropriate. Do not assume a help annotation validates all input. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Omit the argument, pass one and pass several. Compare actual action behavior with the published synopsis and add validation when needed. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
12. Default values
What the framework does. The DSL supports default_value for a following flag or switch. Defaults must be described accurately, including the distinction between an omitted input and a value explicitly supplied. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. For –limit, show the default if the app sets one. Do not claim a different limit merely because a translated example uses a culturally familiar number. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test omitted and explicit forms and compare the resulting options hash. Regenerate help whenever the default changes. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
13. Negatable switches
What the framework does. Current GLI documentation describes switches that are negatable by default, with a –no- form. The exact behavior is controlled by options such as negatable and default_value. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Explain positive and negative modes with literal accepted syntax, especially when a switch defaults to true. Do not invent a language-specific negative word as a flag. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run –verbose, –no-verbose where supported and the absent case. Confirm the effective value in the action. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
14. Short aliases and long aliases
What the framework does. Flags and switches can be declared with multiple accepted names. Aliases help experienced users, but they increase the number of routes a multilingual guide must keep consistent. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Display -l and –limit together only if both exist in the actual command definition. A reader should not infer a one-letter alias from a translated word. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test every documented spelling, including case and scope. Remove aliases from examples when the parser does not recognize them. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
15. Type conversion
What the framework does. GLI supports type conversion for flags using the documented type option and converter facilities. Without configured conversion, the application may receive strings rather than the numeric or structured values a guide assumes. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. A limit described as an integer should be validated and converted before use. A guide must not imply comma-separated or translated digits are universally supported. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test valid and invalid numeric inputs and inspect the type received by the action. Report accepted syntax based on the installed configuration. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
16. must_match constraints
What the framework does. The flag DSL documents must_match for a regular expression or allowable value set. This is a parser-level constraint, not merely a translated example of preferred values. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. For an output mode, accept a deliberate set such as table or json and explain that these are exact tokens. Translating the display meaning must not change the machine value. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Attempt a valid mode, unknown mode and similar-looking localized word. The guide should describe the real acceptance rule. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
17. Multiple flag values
What the framework does. GLI supports a multiple option for some flags, storing repeated values as an array. This differs from a single flag with a comma-delimited string. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. A filter may be supplied twice rather than written as one phrase with commas. Teach the syntax demonstrated by the application rather than assuming both forms are accepted. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run once, twice and with invalid repetition. Inspect the array and preserve the order where it matters. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
18. Command.action receives three contexts
What the framework does. An action block can receive global options, command-specific options and remaining positional arguments. Translators do not see these hashes, but their help must describe the same distinctions. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. If a reader selects list with a limit and a collection label, the documentation should identify which is a flag value and which is a positional argument. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Print sanitized values in a safe test harness. Verify that the expected command action ran and that no input was silently dropped. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
19. Default command and no-command behavior
What the framework does. GLI commands can specify a default subcommand, and command objects may have actions when a child is omitted. The no-child outcome therefore needs direct verification. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Do not tell users that running collection list automatically shows recent entries unless that action or default has been implemented. Show a full route for dependable instructions. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run the parent with and without a child. Confirm help, default action and errors match the published description. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
20. Command examples in help
What the framework does. The GLI Command API supports example declarations for command invocations. An example is valuable only when it is complete and actually works in the targeted release. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Choose one ordinary use case and one correction after an invalid option. Show realistic safe identifiers, not production secrets or destructive commands. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Copy each example from generated help into a clean shell and observe the output. Update code and translations together. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
21. Command missing and recovery
What the framework does. GLI exposes command_missing mechanisms for handling unknown commands in supported versions. A friendly suggestion should point to a real registered verb, not silently execute a guess. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. An unknown listt might lead to a message suggesting list, while preserving control with the user. Explain the action needed to recover. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test a near miss and an unrelated command. Verify error exit status and the validity of any suggested route. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
22. Error handlers and message ownership
What the framework does. Application error handling may be customized. Parser errors, validation failures and runtime exceptions are different sources of text and should not be lumped together. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. For an invalid limit, show acceptable input and a correction. For a missing collection file, explain file access separately rather than blaming a malformed flag. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Trigger three failure types, capture stdout, stderr and exit codes, and verify distinct recovery instructions. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
23. Global help and leaf help
What the framework does. Generated root help normally lists available commands, while leaf help explains local flags and arguments. Readers should be able to move from overview to exact syntax. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. A local-language overview should offer one executable starting point and a next step, instead of sending users through several unrelated commands. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test help from the packaged executable at both levels. Check that aliases, required inputs and example invocations remain consistent. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
24. Help layout and wrapping
What the framework does. Long translations can expand labels and wrap columns in narrow terminals. Line wrapping should not split an option or place a placeholder next to the wrong description. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Use concise option summaries and longer paragraphs for context. Keep exact token spellings isolated so they can be copied safely. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Capture help at narrow and wide widths, including CJK and RTL language samples. Verify no essential input disappears. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
25. Localization catalog strategy
What the framework does. GLI’s DSL expects strings. The application must choose how to supply translated descriptions and messages, whether through Ruby I18n or another explicitly configured catalog system. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Use stable resource keys for help summaries, runtime messages and recovery guidance. Do not imply GLI automatically chooses a locale or translates every parser-generated phrase. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Change locale intentionally, render root and command help, then verify fallback behavior when a translation key is missing. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
26. Avoid interpolated sentence fragments
What the framework does. A translated message often needs a different word order. Concatenating a hardcoded prefix, value and suffix can produce unreadable text or misplace numbers. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Store complete sentences with placeholders for collection name and count. Translate the sentence as a unit, leaving user-supplied values intact. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test two different variable values and plural counts in each language. Check that no placeholder disappears or swaps values. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
27. Ruby encodings and Unicode
What the framework does. Ruby strings, filesystem paths and terminal output can have different encoding boundaries. A displayed Japanese label does not prove a CJK filename was opened correctly. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Use harmless test names with accented Latin characters, Chinese and Arabic strings. Avoid silent transliteration that changes identifiers. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Record Ruby string encodings, actual input and filesystem outcome. Repeat in each supported operating system and shell. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
28. Shell quoting and option boundaries
What the framework does. A shell processes quotation and expansion before GLI sees input. This is especially visible for filenames containing spaces, punctuation or leading dashes. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Show the specific quoting style for Bash or PowerShell where necessary. Do not assume every system supports exactly the same escape conventions. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Compare what ARGV contains with the command line copied by the reader. Correct the example rather than changing a perfectly valid translation. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
29. Configuration file interactions
What the framework does. GLI can work with configuration-oriented behavior in applications, and command default values can interact with external settings. Documentation must name precedence when the app supports it. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. If a language or limit is chosen by a user config file, explain whether a command-line option overrides it. Do not promise hidden auto-detection. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run with no config, a set config and an explicit override. Document the resulting options instead of relying on assumptions. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
30. Completion and shell affordances
What the framework does. Completion, when an application supports it, should suggest real registered commands and options. Displayed descriptions are different from the actual bytes submitted to the parser. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. A translated completion tooltip may help recognition while the candidate remains the literal list command. Avoid offering candidate names that are only translated labels. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Test one top-level and nested completion candidate under each supported shell setup, then execute it for real. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
31. Bundler and executable packaging
What the framework does. The upstream README recommends Bundler and a generated bin executable. A development command may work while a packaged gem lacks files needed for language resources. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Build the gem or deployment artifact and test a clean install. Inspect the gemspec for included locale data and the launcher for path assumptions. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Run help and one safe action outside the source directory. Simulate a missing catalog and ensure a usable fallback. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
32. Security and output contracts
What the framework does. Human-facing text may change language, but stable flags, JSON keys, codes and error statuses are integration contracts. Accidentally localizing them can break scripts. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Use a machine-readable mode with invariant field names where possible, and a separate human display. Keep sample identifiers fictional and avoid printing secrets in debug output. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Compare two locales’ structured results and exit statuses. Only the permitted presentation strings should differ. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
33. Test cases before release
What the framework does. A translation is not finished when a reviewer approves the prose; it is finished when readers can complete and repair a task with the installed executable. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Test list –limit with normal input, missing value, invalid value and Unicode argument. Ask a person unfamiliar with the code to find help and finish the preview. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Record the actual invocation, installed GLI and Ruby versions, active locale and result. Re-run whenever a command or help string changes. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
34. Maintenance without cannibalizing other guides
What the framework does. A framework-specific guide should answer GLI command DSL questions rather than rewrite broad beginner translation theory. Keep links to general translation concepts for readers who need that foundation. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Link out to the translation master for terminology and context work, while using this article for GLI-specific scopes, defaults, help and release problems. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Review each heading for a unique GLI user decision. Remove generic advice that does not explain a relevant piece of the installed command. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
35. Independent acceptance
What the framework does. The final user should not need to inspect Ruby code or an English README to execute a harmless task. Their ability to recover from a mistake is as important as their first success. The user-facing description is dependable only when it explains this actual command behavior, not a writer’s preferred variation.
How to teach it. Give a target-language reader a packaged collection tool, then ask them to find the list route, set a limit, read an invalid-value error and correct it. Keep accepted command tokens distinct from translation of their meaning so the reader can copy the correct line.
How to prove it. Observe where they translate a literal flag or mistake a placeholder for an input. Repair that instruction and repeat the same task. Include the installed version, selected locale, copied invocation, parsed input and observed result. Describe configuration-sensitive behavior as conditional instead of claiming it applies to every Ruby CLI.
Sixteen practical diagnostics and repairs
When a localized command fails, check whether the source is option scope, parser conversion, the shell, resource lookup or package distribution. A useful diagnostic gives the reader a corrected invocation and verifies it, not merely a different translation of the same error.
Case 1: A translated command does not run
Likely reason. A DSL description was mistaken for a command alias. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Use the real command, or register an alias and verify its route before publishing it. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 2: A child command sees no limit
Likely reason. The flag may be global, command-specific or placed outside its accepted scope. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Inspect the action’s global and local option hashes and write an exact invocation. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 3: A number is received as text
Likely reason. A type conversion was not declared or did not apply. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Validate and convert the flag intentionally, and show the input forms that the application accepts. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 4: An optional positional is actually required
Likely reason. An arg annotation was treated as if it enforced parsing rules. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Check the command action and add explicit validation where needed. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 5: Verbose cannot be switched off
Likely reason. A default-true switch was documented without its negated form. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Test the –no- form when supported and show its exact syntax. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 6: A short alias is rejected
Likely reason. The assumed alias was not included in the flag declaration. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Show only registered spellings and keep aliases under regression tests. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 7: A default differs across machines
Likely reason. External configuration and explicit options may have different precedence. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Test no configuration, configured value and command-line override. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 8: An option value is silently wrong
Likely reason. The help description and must_match policy disagree. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Align advertised allowed values with the parser constraint and handler behavior. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 9: The nested route is incomplete
Likely reason. The guide gives only the leaf verb without its parent command. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Show the full command hierarchy and its child-specific help. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 10: A help example fails after copying
Likely reason. Shell quoting or an invented placeholder was involved. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Test exact paste into the supported shell and identify replaceable values. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 11: The German help line is clipped
Likely reason. Longer descriptions overrun terminal-width assumptions. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Test narrow output and move details into long help rather than cutting information. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 12: A Unicode filename cannot open
Likely reason. The argument, filesystem or terminal may use a different encoding boundary. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Inspect the actual Ruby string and path, rather than assuming that displayed glyphs prove file access. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 13: English errors remain inside localized help
Likely reason. Some errors originate from GLI or Ruby instead of app-owned strings. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Audit message ownership and provide accurate local recovery instructions. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 14: A gem install omits the catalog
Likely reason. Language resources were excluded from the packaged distribution. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Inspect gemspec contents and test a clean installation from the built artifact. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 15: An unknown verb executes unexpectedly
Likely reason. Custom command_missing handling may route to another action. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Use safe suggestion behavior and verify no hidden destructive default runs. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Case 16: A structured result changes key names
Likely reason. Human-language output has leaked into a machine contract. The visible symptom alone does not prove translation was at fault, so begin with the application version and exact tokens the user entered.
Repair. Keep serialized keys and process statuses stable while localizing presentation. Run the failing and corrected cases against the same installed build, checking the final action, output and exit status. Record the distinction for future readers.
Frequently asked questions
Does GLI translate command names automatically?
No. A desc or long_desc string is human help. A new command spelling must be registered as a real name or alias. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
What is the difference between flag and switch?
A flag takes an argument; a switch does not. Help should clearly show which input form the user is expected to supply. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
Can GLI define aliases?
Yes. Its DSL permits multiple names for a command or option in supported forms. Every published alias should be executable and tested. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
Does arg enforce requiredness?
Its documentation notes that arg annotations describe arguments for help and do not by themselves enforce parsing. Verify and validate actual action behavior. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
How do I translate the value placeholder?
Keep a short recognizable token in the synopsis and explain the replaceable input in ordinary language. Do not alter the option’s real spelling. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
Why does –no- matter?
GLI switches can have negatable forms, including when the default is true. Test the installed configuration before promising a negated flag. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
Can a flag constrain values?
The documented must_match and type facilities can restrict or convert inputs. A translated explanation must match those constraints exactly. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
Where do application messages come from?
The action and other application code provide many messages. Developers must wire their chosen localization catalog and define a fallback. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
How do I check Unicode?
Pass real Unicode data through the actual packaged executable, inspect received strings and repeat on the supported shells and filesystems. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
When is the guide release-ready?
A new reader can discover a command, provide accepted flags, complete a harmless task and recover from an error without inspecting the Ruby source. Publish the corresponding tested command or error-recovery example, so the answer becomes usable guidance rather than a detached statement.
Four-week learning and release sequence
Week 1 — establish command tree and input scope
Create a harmless list application using the current GLI gem. Capture the root and child synopsis, global and local option scopes, flags, switches, defaults and positional arguments. Exercise successful and failing invocations before changing language. Preserve one working action and one recoverable failure per language to make the next software update easier to assess.
Week 2 — localize descriptions and messages
Prepare complete translated command summaries, longer help explanations, error recovery and output sentences. Keep registered names literal and separate placeholders from data. Test fallback catalogs and cross-language command examples with target-language reviewers. Preserve one working action and one recoverable failure per language to make the next software update easier to assess.
Week 3 — verify parser boundaries and packaging
Test accepted types, must_match, repeated values, aliases, negatable switches, unknown routes and Unicode paths. Capture stdout, stderr and exit codes. Build a gem or equivalent artifact and check that help and catalogs survive a clean installation. Preserve one working action and one recoverable failure per language to make the next software update easier to assess.
Week 4 — independent completion and maintenance
Ask readers who do not know the Ruby source to select the right route, set a limit, understand a failure and retry successfully. Correct confusing explanations and repeat. Tie future DSL command changes to renewed testing in every supported locale. Preserve one working action and one recoverable failure per language to make the next software update easier to assess.
Final acceptance: clear meaning with executable truth
A Ruby GLI tool is effectively localized when a reader can identify the right command, understand which values go after which flags, distinguish switches from value-bearing options and repair an invalid invocation independently. Their selected language may change explanations and help messages, but it must not quietly change serialization keys or turn a documented option into a guess. Deliver a clean installed executable and a guide that describes that executable accurately. That is the practical standard by which multilingual technical writing earns trust.