Hybrid parsing system and method

A system and method are provided for parsing a markup file. The present system includes a hybrid parser that employs both a lightweight parser and a heavy weight parser to parse a markup file. The lightweight parser is capable of performing a first set of parsing tasks and the heavyweight parser is capable of performing a second set of parsing tasks, where the first set of parsing tasks is a subset of the second set of parsing tasks. In addition, the hybrid parser provides for transitioning a parsing of a markup file from the lightweight parser to the heavyweight parser upon an occurrence of a transition event. A transition event is defined, for example, as the circumstance where the lightweight parser is required to perform a parsing task that is beyond its capability.