WHY CXX INSTEAD OF CPP

The programming language world is full of acronyms and abbreviations that can be confusing to newcomers. Two of the most common are C++ and CXX. Both refer to the same language, but there are some subtle differences between them.

What is C++?

C++ is a general-purpose programming language created by Bjarne Stroustrup in 1979. It is a statically-typed, compiled language that supports multiple programming paradigms, including procedural, object-oriented, and generic programming. C++ is a powerful and versatile language that has been used to develop a wide variety of applications, including operating systems, games, and scientific software.

What is CXX?

CXX is an alias for C++. It was originally used as a filename extension for C++ source code files, but it is now also commonly used as a compiler flag to specify that a program should be compiled using the C++ compiler. CXX is a more concise way to refer to C++, and it is often used when typing commands in a terminal or when writing makefiles.

Why Use CXX Instead of CPP?

There are a few reasons why you might want to use CXX instead of CPP.

• Shorter: CXX is shorter than CPP, so it is easier to type. This can be a significant advantage if you are typing a lot of code or if you are working on a project with multiple developers.
• More Consistent: The CXX file extension is more consistent with other programming languages. For example, Java source code files use the .java extension, and C# source code files use the .cs extension. Using CXX instead of CPP makes it easier to remember the file extension for C++ source code.
• More Common: CXX is more common than CPP in the C++ community. This means that you are more likely to find examples and tutorials online that use the CXX file extension.

When to Use CPP Instead of CXX

There are a few cases where you might want to use CPP instead of CXX.

• Legacy Code: If you are working on a legacy project that uses the CPP file extension, you should continue to use CPP for consistency.
• Compatibility: Some older compilers may not support the CXX file extension. If you are working on a project that needs to be compatible with an older compiler, you should use CPP instead of CXX.

Conclusion

In general, there is no right or wrong answer to the question of whether to use CXX or CPP. Both file extensions are valid, and the choice of which one to use is a matter of personal preference. However, there are a few factors to consider, such as consistency, common usage, and compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What does CXX stand for?
  A: CXX is an alias for C++.

• Q: Why is CXX used instead of CPP?
  A: CXX is shorter, more consistent with other programming languages, and more common in the C++ community.

• Q: When should I use CPP instead of CXX?
  A: You should use CPP instead of CXX if you are working on a legacy project that uses the CPP file extension or if you need to be compatible with an older compiler.

• Q: Are CXX and CPP the same language?
  A: Yes, CXX and CPP are the same language.

• Q: Can I use CXX and CPP files in the same project?
  A: Yes, you can use CXX and CPP files in the same project.