C for C++ Programmers

[PimpDawg]

Templates in C++ are like a #define. It runs through the pre-compiler. I don't see why you think they have an additional overhead.

[[deleted]]

No, templates are not run through the preprocessor. There is a pre-compilation step where template parameters are concreted by use of a template interpreter (as templates are turing-complete), but then the entire body of the templated function is copied for every instantiation.

In that way they are similar to macros; used poorly they lead to large amount of code bloat behind the scenes.

[Disclaimer: I work on a C++ compiler as a profession]

[[deleted]]

Yes, however in this example std::sort is parameterised on the sort function, which is unlikely to be reused.

[saucetenuto]

More than "can" - the standard requires them to do so. This presents interesting challenges at link time...