# Introduction

version 5.0.0-alpha-9

Groovy…​

- is an agile and dynamic language for the Java Virtual Machine

- builds upon the strengths of Java but has additional power features inspired by languages like Python, Ruby and Smalltalk

- makes modern programming features available to Java developers with almost-zero learning curve

- provides the ability to statically type check and statically compile your code for robustness and performance

- supports Domain-Specific Languages and other compact syntax so your code becomes easy to read and maintain

- makes writing shell and build scripts easy with its powerful processing primitives, OO abilities and an Ant DSL

- increases developer productivity by reducing scaffolding code when developing web, GUI, database or console applications

- simplifies testing by supporting unit testing and mocking out-of-the-box

- seamlessly integrates with all existing Java classes and libraries

- compiles straight to Java bytecode so you can use it anywhere you can use Java