Operator overloading allows programmers to override predefined operators with custom arguments of different data types. This feature can create shortcuts for manipulating user-defined or predefined data types. The compiler chooses the correct action based on the operands used. Some programming languages allow operator overloading, while others do not. There is debate about the benefits and risks of using operator overloading.
Operator overloading is a computer programming language feature that allows a programmer to override a predefined operator. When the operator function is overloaded, it can be declared with custom arguments that are different data types than the operator was able to handle by default. The new parameters can be of primitive type or user-defined. Within the body of the override function, a programmer can manipulate parameter values as desired. Using operator overloading, a programmer can create intuitive shortcuts to manipulate user-defined data types or change the way predefined data types are handled.
When user-defined data types are created, simple operational tasks such as adding two of them or incrementing internal data using the unary increment operator with the data type cannot be performed. Operators, including the addition symbol, can be overridden so that when used as binary operators between two custom data types, they return a user-defined result. Similarly, a unary operator, such as the increment operator, could be overridden to increment an internal value within the user-defined type.
Once an operator is overloaded, the compiler has to make a decision about what to do when it encounters an overloaded operator. The compiler decides the correct action to take based on the data types used as operands or in conjunction with the operator. If the operands, which are parameter values to the operator function, are user-defined data types, the compiler will choose the overloaded function that has parameters that match the operands used.
Computer languages vary in how they allow for this kind of ad hoc polymorphism. Different languages may allow you to create new custom operators, overload all or some of its operators, or not allow operators to be overloaded at all. C++, C#, PHP, and Perl all allow you to overload some of their operators. Operator overloading is not allowed in C, Java and Javascript.
Both operator overloading and function overloading in general have been the subject of some debate. Some argue that giving the programmer the freedom to change an operator’s behavior could introduce the possibility of creating unintentional errors by other programmers using the custom code. The opposing view proposes that allowing operator overloading gives programmers the ability to create intuitive and concise code that will be easier to understand, cost less to produce, and reduce errors.
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