Compiler vs. Interpreter — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 16, 2024
A compiler translates the entire source code into machine code before execution, while an interpreter translates and executes code line-by-line.
Difference Between Compiler and Interpreter
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A compiler converts the entire source code of a program into machine code at once, creating an executable file. This process involves multiple stages such as lexical analysis, syntax analysis, semantic analysis, optimization, and code generation. An interpreter, on the other hand, translates source code into machine code line-by-line and executes it immediately. This means each line of code is parsed, interpreted, and executed in sequence.
Compilers are generally used for languages like C, C++, and Java, where performance is critical, and once compiled, the code can run without the source file. Interpreters are commonly used for languages like Python, JavaScript, and Ruby, which prioritize ease of use and flexibility over raw performance.
The main advantage of a compiler is that it produces fast and efficient executables, but it requires a complete recompilation of the program for any changes. The main advantage of an interpreter is its simplicity and flexibility, allowing for immediate execution and easy debugging, but at the cost of slower execution speed.
Compilers typically detect syntax errors before execution, providing a comprehensive list of errors for the entire program. Interpreters, however, stop execution at the first encountered error, making it easier to pinpoint but potentially more disruptive for debugging.
Comparison Chart
Translation Method
Converts entire source code into machine code
Translates and executes code line-by-line
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Execution Speed
Faster, as translation is done beforehand
Slower, as translation occurs during execution
Usage
Used for performance-critical languages
Used for scripting and high-level languages
Error Detection
Detects errors before execution
Stops and reports errors at first encounter
Dependency
Produces independent executable
Requires source code and interpreter for execution
Compare with Definitions
Compiler
Produces a standalone executable.
After compilation, you can run the program without the source code.
Interpreter
Requires the source code and interpreter for execution.
To run the script, you need the Python interpreter installed.
Compiler
Performs optimization for faster execution.
The compiler optimized the code for better performance.
Interpreter
Reports errors one at a time during execution.
The interpreter stopped at the syntax error in line 5.
Compiler
Detects and lists all syntax errors in the code.
The compiler flagged multiple errors before producing the executable.
Interpreter
A program that translates and executes code line-by-line.
The Python interpreter runs each line of code as it is written.
Compiler
A program that translates entire source code into machine code.
The C compiler translates the source code into an executable file.
Interpreter
Allows immediate execution and testing of code.
The interpreter lets developers test code snippets quickly.
Compiler
In computing, a compiler is a computer program that translates computer code written in one programming language (the source language) into another language (the target language). The name "compiler" is primarily used for programs that translate source code from a high-level programming language to a lower level language (e.g., assembly language, object code, or machine code) to create an executable program.There are many different types of compilers which produce output in different useful forms.
Interpreter
A person who interprets, especially one who translates speech orally or into sign language.
Compiler
One that compiles
A compiler of anthologies.
Interpreter
A program that can analyse and execute a program line by line.
Compiler
(Computers) A program that translates another program written in a high-level language into machine language so that it can be executed.
Interpreter
One who translates orally from one language into another.
Compiler
One who compiles.
A compiler of poetry anthologies
My favourite crossword compiler
Interpreter
One who gives or expounds an interpretation
"An actor is an interpreter of other men's words, often a soul which wishes to reveal itself to the world" (Alec Guinness).
Compiler
(compilation) A computer program which transforms source code into object code.
Interpreter
(Computers) A program that executes other programs.
Compiler
One who compiles; esp., one who makes books by compilation.
Interpreter
A person who interprets.
An interpreter of dreams
One of the foremost interpreters [i.e. performers] of Beethoven's piano works
Compiler
A computer program that decodes instructions written in a higher-level computer language to produce an assembly-language program or an executable program in machine language.
Interpreter
A person who converts spoken or signed language into a different language for the benefit of one or more others who do not understand the first language being used (especially if in real time or shortly after that person has finished communicating). translator.}}
A Japanese man who is tried before a German court is assisted by an interpreter in making oral statements.
Compiler
A person who compiles (or writes for) encyclopedias
Interpreter
A guide who helps people visiting an attraction such as an art exhibit, a nature reserve, etc., understand what they are seeing.
Compiler
(computer science) a program that decodes instructions written in a higher order language and produces an assembly language program
Interpreter
(figuratively) Something that reveals or clarifies.
Compiler
Converts high-level language into executable code.
The Java compiler converts .java files into bytecode.
Interpreter
(computing) A program that executes another program written in a high-level language by reading the instructions in real time rather than by compiling it in advance.
Programs written in the BASIC language are usually run through an interpreter, though some can be compiled.
Interpreter
One who or that which interprets, explains, or expounds; a translator; especially, a person who translates orally between two parties.
We think most men's actions to be the interpreters of their thoughts.
Interpreter
Someone who mediates between speakers of different languages
Interpreter
Someone who uses art to represent something;
His paintings reveal a sensitive interpreter of nature
She was famous as an interpreter of Shakespearean roles
Interpreter
An advocate who represents someone else's policy or purpose;
The meeting was attended by spokespersons for all the major organs of government
Interpreter
(computer science) a program that translates and executes source language statements one line at a time
Interpreter
Directly executes instructions written in a programming language.
The JavaScript interpreter executes code within the browser.
Common Curiosities
What is an interpreter?
An interpreter translates and executes code line-by-line, requiring the source code and interpreter at runtime.
Can a language be both compiled and interpreted?
Yes, languages like Python can be interpreted or compiled to bytecode.
What is an example of an interpreted language?
Python is an example of an interpreted language.
Which is faster, a compiler or an interpreter?
Compilers generally produce faster executables because the translation is done before execution.
Do compilers detect errors before execution?
Yes, compilers detect and list errors before the program is executed.
Do interpreters stop at the first error?
Yes, interpreters typically stop and report errors one at a time during execution.
Why use an interpreter?
Interpreters allow for immediate code execution, which is useful for development, testing, and scripting.
What is an example of a compiled language?
C is an example of a compiled language.
What is a compiler?
A compiler translates the entire source code into machine code before execution, producing an independent executable.
Can interpreters be used for debugging?
Yes, interpreters are useful for debugging as they execute code line-by-line and report errors immediately.
Do interpreters require the source code to run?
Yes, interpreters need the source code for execution.
Is Java compiled or interpreted?
Java is compiled to bytecode and then interpreted by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
What is bytecode?
Bytecode is an intermediate code that is more abstract than machine code and can be executed by a virtual machine.
Can compiled code run without the source code?
Yes, compiled code can run independently of the source code.
Why are compiled programs faster?
Compiled programs are faster because the translation to machine code is done beforehand, and they run directly as executable files.
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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.
