Why Does Java Use both Compiler and Interpreter?

Let's begin this article with a basic question.

What do you mean by Language Translator?

You may imagine a tool or piece of software that can translate between languages as needed so that both parties can understand. You are totally correct.

Compilers and interpreters are simply language translators in computer programming. These are the software programs/tools that translate the source code of a programming language into machine code, bytecode, or any other intermediate code. Or, to put it simply, it transforms code from High Level Language to Low Level Language, making it machine understandable code.

Every programmer is aware that interpreter and compiler are used separately in various languages. But the Java programming language employs an interpreter as well as a compiler. Java programming language uses both the compiler and an interpreter because the source programming code is first transformed into binary programming code. And, this code is run by the JVM, which is usually a software-based interpreter.

By using compiled byte code, the interpreter can be small and useful. This binary code also aids in the functionality of Java because, when used correctly, it will execute on any JVM, regardless of equipment or software setup. Java makes use of an interpreter as well as a compiler.

Therefore, we will give you more information about, What is Java compiler and java Interpreter.

Java Compiler

The Java compiler is also known as javac. It converts source code into an intermediate file known as a bytecode file. The fact that every type of OS uses a different bytecode file allows for platform independence.

A Java compiler converts the entire source code into a machine-code file or other intermediate code, which is then executed. It is independent of platforms. A bytecode is primarily a transitional code that is created by the compiler after the source code has been compiled.

The "Javac.exe" command can be used from the command line to launch the Java compiler.

How does the Java compiler work in Java?

• It quickly scans the entire source code before highlighting the error.

• More memory is consumed during the bytecode creation process.

• It checks to see if there are any typographical or syntactical errors to ensure that the program is correct.

• Additionally, if necessary, it adds some extra code to our program.

Java Interpreter

Java is compatible with every Operating system, and the Java interpreter converts bytecode into machine code. According to the Operating system, this machine code will change.

An interpreter is a computer program that performs a similar function by translating high-level program statements into Assembly-level programming language. When you run the program, the binary code (binary programming language) is converted into machine code (machine programming language).

How does Java Interpreter work in Java?

• It translates the binary code into the machine's native code.

• The interpreter translates language one line by one line.

• The process ends when an error occurs in line.

Difference between a Java Compiler and a Java Interpreter

• The program is completely compiled by the compiler before being converted to machine code, which the interpreter then interprets line by line.

• The compiler shows all errors and warnings at once, whereas the interpreter only shows one error at a time.

• Unlike the compiler, which scans the entire program, the interpreter finds errors after reading each line.

• An interpreter is faster to debug than a compiler.

• Compared to the compiler, the interpreter takes longer to run.

Conclusion

Any programming language can be used to generate the machine code. Any programming language, a group of languages, or a language of languages.

Like many other modern programming languages, Java uses an interpreter and compiler in tandem. The goal is to combine the best features of both worlds.

Java compiled and interpreted flawlessly. A Java application runs entirely on a computer using the Java compiler and JVM, a software-based interpreter.

Java employs a compiler as well as an interpreter. This is so that the interpreter can use the Java code, which the compiler first converts to bytes before using. The interpreter then converts the bytes to additional machine code, such as Linux, Microsoft word, Windows 10, etc.