Compilers: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to programs that translate high-level programming languages into machine code, allowing the program to run on the hardware directly. Commonly used in the context of software development for languages like C++ or Java.

• The compiler generated the executable file for the program.
• You need to make sure there are no errors before running the compiler.

Typically used to describe software or tools that convert text from one human language to another, allowing for communication across different languages.

• The online translator helps me understand Spanish documents.
• We hired a professional translator for our business meeting.

Programs that execute instructions written in a programming or scripting language without requiring them to be compiled first. Often used for scripting languages and during development for quick testing.

• Python uses an interpreter to run scripts directly.
• During debugging, the interpreter allows you to see real-time results.

Generally used to describe tools that change the format or structure of data from one form to another. Can be used in various fields like digital media, software, and more.

• The video converter can change MP4 files to AVI.
• We need a converter to transform the data into a readable format.

When discussing multiple software systems that translate various programming languages into machine code.

• Different compilers may produce different performance results for the same code.
• Several compilers are available for different programming languages.

Generally used for language translation, often referring to converting text from one natural language to another. Can also describe tools that translate code or data, but is less specific than 'compiler' or 'interpreter'.

• She used a translator to understand the French document.
• The legacy code requires a translator to work with the new system.

Best suited for general purposes outside of programming, such as converting file formats, units of measurement, or other types of data.

• The online tool acts as a PDF to Word converter.
• She used a currency converter before her trip.

Used in scenarios where programs are executed line-by-line, translating high-level code into machine code on the fly. Common in scripting languages like Python and JavaScript.

• The Python interpreter executes scripts line by line.
• JavaScript code runs directly in the browser via an interpreter.