A programming language is a formal constructed language designed to communicate instructions to a Computer. It defines a set of rules, both syntactic and semantic, that allow a programmer to specify Algorithm and Data Structure. These languages bridge the gap between human thought and machine execution, enabling the creation of diverse Software applications.
From low-level languages like Assembly Language that interact closely with hardware, to high-level languages like Python, Java, or C++ that offer greater abstraction and readability, programming languages serve various purposes. They are used for everything from web development and scientific computing to artificial intelligence and operating systems. Each language often embodies different Programming Paradigm, such as Object-Oriented Programming, Functional Programming, or Imperative Programming, influencing how problems are conceptualized and solved.
For a program to be executed by a Computer, the source code written in a programming language must be translated into Machine Code. This translation is typically performed by a Compiler, which converts the entire program before execution, or an Interpreter, which translates and executes code line by line. The precise rules governing the structure (Syntax) and meaning (Semantics) of a language are crucial for ensuring that programs are unambiguous and executable by machines.
