# Introduction

> What FizzBee is: a Python-like formal specification language built on Starlark, with explicit model checking, implicit fault injection and role-based modeling.

Canonical: https://fizzbee.io/reference/language/introduction/
Source: https://github.com/fizzbee-io/fizzbee/blob/main/examples/references/LANGUAGE_REFERENCE.md#introduction


FizzBee is a Python-like formal specification language for modeling distributed systems. It is based on Starlark (a Python subset) and provides explicit model checking with automatic fault injection capabilities.

## Key Differentiators from TLA+

1. **Python-like syntax**: Easy to learn and read
2. **Implicit fault injection**: Automatic crash and message loss simulation
3. **Non-atomic actions**: Natural modeling of multi-step operations
4. **Role-based modeling**: Object-oriented approach to distributed actors

## Language Foundation

FizzBee uses Starlark as its expression and statement engine:
- Python-compatible syntax for expressions
- Deterministic execution
- No `import` statement and no arbitrary Python imports — a curated set of
  modules is auto-imported globally (see [Standard Library](/reference/language/standard-library/))
- Built-in support for common data structures