GCC vs. CC — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 15, 2023
GCC stands for "GNU Compiler Collection," a suite of compilers, while CC is a generic command to invoke the C compiler, often linked to a system's default C compiler.
Difference Between GCC and CC
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
GCC refers to the "GNU Compiler Collection," a set of programming compilers produced by the GNU Project. It encompasses compilers for multiple programming languages, such as C, C++, and Fortran. CC, on the other hand, is a standard command used on Unix-based systems to invoke the default C compiler, which may or may not be GCC.
While GCC is renowned for its versatility and its support for a variety of languages and architectures, CC serves as a general command. When a user inputs the CC command, it usually activates the system's primary C compiler, and in many systems, GCC is the default that CC would call.
GCC has been pivotal in the open-source movement, providing developers with a free and efficient tool for compiling software. In contrast, CC is less about the specific compiler and more about the convenience of a standardized command to access whatever C compiler is installed.
Both GCC and CC play crucial roles in the software development process. GCC offers an extensive suite of compilers for developers to leverage, while CC provides a streamlined, consistent command to quickly compile C programs irrespective of the underlying compiler.
Comparison Chart
Definition
GNU Compiler Collection
Generic command for C compiler
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Origin
Developed by GNU Project
Unix-based systems' command
Supported Languages
C, C++, Fortran, and more
C (but depends on the linked compiler)
Flexibility
Supports multiple languages and architectures
A standard command, not specific to any one compiler
Primary Use
Compilation of programs in various languages
Invoking the system's default C compiler
Compare with Definitions
GCC
A suite of compilers from the GNU Project.
I use GCC to compile my C++ projects.
CC
A command to invoke the default C compiler on Unix-like systems.
I use the CC command to quickly compile my C programs.
GCC
Open-source compilers for various programming languages.
GCC supports Fortran, which is essential for my scientific computing tasks.
CC
Provides consistency for developers on Unix-based systems.
I can move between different Unix systems and still use the CC command for compilation.
GCC
An integral part of many Linux distributions.
Most Linux distributions come with GCC pre-installed for developers.
CC
Often linked to the system's primary C compiler.
On my system, the CC command is an alias for the GCC compiler.
GCC
Compiler supporting multiple architectures.
GCC allows me to compile code for different processor architectures.
CC
Simplifies the process of C code compilation.
Instead of specifying the compiler's full path, I just type CC and the source file name.
GCC
A key tool in the free software movement.
With GCC, developers have a free tool to compile their open-source applications.
CC
A carbon copy of a document.
CC
To send (someone) a carbon copy of a document.
CC
Initialism of carbon copy
CC
Initialism of closed caption
CC
Initialism of courtesy copy
CC
Initialism of cubic centimeter
CC
Abbreviation of chapters
CC
Init of carbon copy
CC
Init of crowd control
Just cc him, bro.
CC
A metric unit of volume equal to one thousandth of a liter
CC
Being ten more than one hundred ninety
CC
A generic command, irrespective of the underlying C compiler.
Regardless of which C compiler you have, you can usually use the CC command.
Common Curiosities
Can CC invoke GCC?
Yes, on many systems, GCC is the default compiler that the CC command would call.
What does GCC stand for?
GCC stands for "GNU Compiler Collection."
What is the primary purpose of the CC command?
CC is a command to invoke the default C compiler on Unix-like systems.
Is CC only for C language?
While CC stands for C Compiler, the specific languages it supports depend on the linked compiler.
Is CC specific to any one compiler?
No, CC is a generic command, often linked to the system's primary C compiler.
Who developed GCC?
GCC was developed by the GNU Project.
Does GCC support languages other than C?
Yes, GCC supports multiple languages, including C++, Fortran, and more.
Is GCC open source?
Yes, GCC is open source and is a product of the GNU Project.
How do I know if GCC is installed on my system?
You can type "gcc --version" in the terminal to check if GCC is installed and see its version.
Can GCC compile code for different architectures?
Yes, GCC supports multiple processor architectures.
On which systems is the CC command commonly found?
CC is commonly found on Unix-based or Unix-like systems.
Can I use the CC command on Linux systems?
Yes, the CC command is standard on Linux and other Unix-like systems.
Is there a performance difference between GCC and other compilers?
Performance can vary based on the compiler, optimization settings, and specific use cases. GCC is considered efficient, but exact performance might differ compared to other compilers.
Why is GCC significant in the open-source community?
GCC provides a free and efficient compiler suite, making it pivotal in the open-source movement.
Can I use CC for C++ code?
While CC is designed for C, whether it compiles C++ depends on the linked compiler and the provided flags.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
