Interpreter vs. Compiler: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 24, 2023
An interpreter translates and executes code line-by-line, while a compiler translates entire code into machine code before execution.
Key Differences
Interpreter and compiler are tools in programming that help convert high-level languages into machine-understandable format. An interpreter translates source code line-by-line and executes it immediately, providing instant feedback. In contrast, a compiler translates the entire source code into machine code or another lower-level language before execution takes place.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
While working with an interpreter, developers can see the results of their code instantly. For instance, if there's an error on line 10, the interpreter will stop there and report it. On the other hand, a compiler checks the entire code at once and lists down all errors, if any, after the compilation process.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Interpreters and compilers differ in their speed of execution. Since interpreters process source code line-by-line, they might be slower compared to compilers which, after the initial compilation, execute the compiled code directly and swiftly.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
In terms of portability, code that is interpreted is generally more portable, as it requires the interpreter to be present on the target machine. Compiled code, however, is often platform-specific, meaning a program compiled for one type of machine or OS might not run on another without recompilation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Development environments that utilize interpreters are usually more interactive and suitable for iterative development. Conversely, compiler-based environments are better suited for producing optimized, stand-alone applications.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Mode of Operation
Translates and executes code line-by-line
Translates entire code before execution
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Oct 24, 2023
Error Detection
Reports errors line-by-line
Reports all errors after compilation
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Oct 24, 2023
Execution Speed
Generally slower due to on-the-fly translation
Faster after initial compilation
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Oct 24, 2023
Portability
More portable, needs the interpreter on the target machine
Platform-specific, may need recompilation for other platforms
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
Ideal Use
Iterative development, scripting languages
Optimized, stand-alone applications
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
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Interpreter and Compiler Definitions
Interpreter
Interpreters provide a dynamic programming environment.
The JavaScript interpreter in browsers allows for dynamic web page interactions.
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Oct 24, 2023
Compiler
A compiler can optimize code for better performance.
The optimized code from the compiler resulted in a faster-running application.
Janet White
Oct 24, 2023
Interpreter
An interpreter doesn't produce a separate output file.
Unlike compilers, running code with an interpreter doesn't generate an executable file.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
Compiler
Compilers produce a standalone output, often an executable.
After compiling the Java code, the compiler produces a .class file.
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Oct 24, 2023
Interpreter
Interpreters are used for many scripting languages.
Ruby scripts are executed using an interpreter.
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Oct 24, 2023
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Compiler
A compiler is a program that translates source code into machine code or another language.
The C++ compiler converts the source code into an executable file.
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Oct 24, 2023
Interpreter
An interpreter is a program that executes source code directly.
Python uses an interpreter to run its scripts.
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Oct 24, 2023
Compiler
Compilers perform a comprehensive error check before code execution.
The compiler listed all syntax errors after the compilation process.
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Oct 24, 2023
Interpreter
Interpreters convert high-level code into machine code on-the-fly.
With the help of an interpreter, the developer saw immediate results of the code changes.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Compiler
Compilers are used for many high-level programming languages.
Fortran and COBOL are among the languages that rely on compilers.
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Oct 24, 2023
FAQs
Can interpreters be used for large application development?
While possible, compilers are usually preferred for large, optimized applications.
Janet White
Oct 24, 2023
Do compilers produce an executable file?
Yes, compilers often produce an executable or another form of output file.
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Oct 24, 2023
Which is generally faster in execution, interpreted code or compiled code?
Compiled code is generally faster in execution after the initial compilation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Do compilers check for logical errors?
Compilers can check for syntax errors but not logical errors; logical error checks rely on testing and debugging.
Sara Rehman
Oct 24, 2023
Can I run compiled code on any machine?
Compiled code is usually platform-specific; you might need to recompile it for different platforms.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Are scripting languages like Python interpreted?
Yes, languages like Python use interpreters.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 24, 2023
Do interpreters produce machine code?
Interpreters typically produce and execute machine code on-the-fly without a separate output file.
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Oct 24, 2023
Can I use both an interpreter and a compiler for a single language?
Some languages, like Java, utilize both, but it's dependent on the language and environment.
Harlon Moss
Oct 24, 2023
Which has a faster startup time, interpreters or compilers?
Interpreters generally have a faster startup time, while compilers might take time initially but execute faster later.
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Oct 24, 2023
Are interpreted languages slower than compiled ones?
Generally, interpreted languages may be slower due to on-the-fly translation, but the gap has lessened with advanced interpreters.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Which is more memory efficient, interpreted or compiled code?
Compiled code is generally more memory efficient since it's optimized during compilation.
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Oct 24, 2023
Do I need to recompile my code if I move it to another platform?
Yes, compiled code is often platform-specific and may need recompilation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Is JavaScript compiled?
JavaScript is primarily interpreted, but modern engines use Just-In-Time (JIT) compilation for performance.
Janet White
Oct 24, 2023
Which tool gives immediate feedback, an interpreter or a compiler?
An interpreter provides instant feedback.
Huma Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Can compilers optimize code?
Yes, compilers can optimize code for better performance.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Which tool is better for detecting errors?
Both can detect errors; interpreters do it line-by-line, while compilers list all after compilation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
What's the fundamental difference between an interpreter and a compiler?
An interpreter translates and executes code line-by-line, while a compiler translates entire code before execution.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Do all programming languages use either a compiler or an interpreter?
Most languages predominantly use one, but some can use both or a combination, like Java's use of both compiler and JVM.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Is Java code compiled or interpreted?
Java code is first compiled to bytecode and then interpreted or compiled by the Java Virtual Machine (JVM).
Sumera Saeed
Oct 24, 2023
Which tool is ideal for iterative development?
Interpreters are more suitable for iterative development.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 24, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
