Types of Programming Language
Programming languages can be categorized into several types based on their features,
purpose, and level of abstraction. However our focus will be more on the level of abstraction
and the programming paradigm. Here are the main types with examples of programming
languages that fall under the different types:
1. Based on Level of Abstraction
a. Low-Level Languages (Machine-Oriented)
Machine Language: Binary code that the computer's processor can execute
directly.
Assembly Language: Uses mnemonic codes instead of binary, requiring an
assembler to convert it into machine language.
b. High-Level Languages (Human-Oriented)
Easier to read and write, requiring a compiler or interpreter. Examples:
Python, Java, C++, JavaScript.
2. Based on Programming Paradigm
a. Procedural Languages
Based on functions and procedures, following a step-by-step approach.
Examples: C, Pascal, Fortran.
b. Object-Oriented Languages (OOP)
Based on objects and classes, focusing on data encapsulation and reuse.
Examples: Java, C++, Python, C#.
c. Functional Languages
Treats computation as the evaluation of mathematical functions without
changing state.
Examples: Haskell, Lisp, Scala.
d. Scripting Languages
Used for automation, web development, and lightweight programming.
Examples: Python, JavaScript, PHP, Bash.
e. Declarative Languages
Focus on describing what to do rather than how to do it.
Examples: SQL (for databases), Prolog (for AI).
3. Based on Execution Mode
a. Compiled Languages
Convert source code into machine code before execution.
Examples: C, C++, Rust, Go.
b. Interpreted Languages
Execute code line-by-line without prior compilation.
Examples: Python, JavaScript, Ruby.
c. Hybrid Languages
Use both compilation and interpretation.
Example: Java (compiled into bytecode, then interpreted by the JVM).
4. Special-Purpose Languages
Markup Languages: HTML, XML (for structuring web pages and data).
Query Languages: SQL (for database management).
Hardware Description Languages: VHDL, Verilog (for circuit design).