Seems like an academic exercise. The line was blurred years ago. For
instance, Python would be considered a “scripting language” but it can also be
compiled into pac for faster execution
There are different dimensions to consider like below. In the end I think
today its tomato versus tomato
But, you’ll likely never write an OS in COBOL even though you have to compile
it.
1. Execution Model
Programming Languages:
• Generally compiled into machine code before execution. • Examples: C,
C++, Rust.
• Compilation produces an executable binary that can run independently
of the source code.
• Scripting Languages: • Typically interpreted at runtime by an
interpreter.
• Examples: Python, JavaScript, Ruby. • Source code is read and
executed line by line or via a virtual machine.
Scripting Languages:
• Typically interpreted at runtime by an interpreter.
• Examples: Python, JavaScript, Ruby.
• Source code is read and executed line by line or via a virtual
machine.
2. Purpose and Usage
Programming Languages:
• Often used for building full-scale applications and depend on
external libraries or runtimes for general functions like I/O
Scripting Languages:
• Primarily designed to automate tasks, control other programs, or
manipulate data.
• Often used for “gluing” components together, such as in web
development or system administration.
• Example: Writing a Python script to scrape a website or automate file
processing.
3. Development Environment
Programming Languages:
• Generally requires a separate compilation step before execution.
• Development cycle: Code -> Compile -> Execute.
Scripting Languages:
• Run directly without a compilation step (though many scripting
languages now support Just-In-Time (JIT) compilation for performance).
• Development cycle: Code -> Execute.
4. Typing System and Complexity
Programming Languages:
• Tend to have static typing (types are checked at compile time).
• Examples: Java, C++.
Scripting Languages:
• Tend to have dynamic typing (types are determined at runtime).
• Examples: Python, Perl.
5. Typical Environment
Programming Languages:
• Used for applications that require high performance, resource
management, or low-level access.
Scripting Languages:
• Used in environments where quick development, flexibility, and ease
of use are priorities (e.g., web servers, database interaction, or system
automation).
--
Matt Hogstrom
“To achieve great things two things are needed: a plan, and not quite enough
time.”
- Leonard Bernstein
> On Nov 11, 2024, at 13:37, Bob Bridges
> <00000587168ababf-dmarc-requ...@listserv.ua.edu> wrote:
>
> Just what IS required for something to be a 'programming language'?
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