The article examines the evolving relationship between C and C++ language standards, highlighting constructs that remain incompatible between the languages and recent changes in C++20 and C23. It provides an updated compatibility matrix and practical advice for developers working across both languages, emphasizing that language modes (C17, C23, C++17, C++20, C++23) are now crucial for discussing compatibility. The author maintains a companion repository with examples and Compiler Explorer links for verification.
Background
C++ was originally developed as an extension of C, but the two languages have evolved separately over time, leading to increasing divergence in their standards and features. Understanding the compatibility between these languages is crucial for developers working with both.
- Source
- Lobsters
- Published
- May 23, 2026 at 11:18 PM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10