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Compiler or interpreter — what is the difference?
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All Flashcards in Topic 1.4
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1.4.15 cards
Compiler or interpreter — what is the difference?
A **compiler** translates the whole program in advance into an executable. An **interpreter** translates and executes **line by line**, every run.
When is a syntax error reported by each?
**Compiler**: before the program runs, all at once. **Interpreter**: only when execution **reaches that line**.
Why is interpreted code slower?
Translation happens **while it runs**, every time. Compiled code was already machine code before it started.
What is bytecode for?
A compromise — compile **once** to an intermediate form, then run it on a virtual machine per platform. The compiler's checking with the interpreter's portability.
Do compilers or interpreters catch logic errors?
**Neither.** Both run a wrong answer happily — they check the language's rules, not your intentions.
Topic 1.4 study notes
Full notes & explanations for Translation
Computer Science exam skills
Paper structures, command terms & tips
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