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aa114
1,697 PointsGeneral purpose language.
If Paython, as its says in the introduction, can be used to build anything. Why then there's specialized languages ? Why not use python to build a website instead of java script, css, and HTML.?.
I'm an absolute beginner
1 Answer
Kevin Gates
15,052 PointsThis is a great question. The answer to this question is multifaceted.
In part, certain technologies started in a particular area (Front-end, back-end, gaming, etc.) and therefore became the major players in those areas initially before other languages also gained the ability to do similar tasks.
For instance, on the front-end, it was just HTML and CSS. Later JavaScript was introduced as a programming language that can run on the client (i.e.: your web browser).
Additionally, different languages are designed with certain goals in mind. So if you have a bolt for instance, you could use pliers to tighten it. However, it may be easier to use a socket wrench. Both the pliers and socket wrench can tighten the bolt but if you are loosening and tightening bolts all the time, you will be a lot more efficient with a socket wrench set than some pliers.
Similarly, programming languages are built and optimized for different goals. JavaScript easily converts from one type to another: the string "55" can be added to the number 5, and JavaScript will automatically convert 55 to a number and add it to 5, returning 60. Other languages require you to explicitly convert the data types. Perhaps for Front-End website, the implicit conversion of JavaScript is better and faster for what you want to do. For the backend, the explicit type-setting may help your backend remain more secure.
I hope this begins to open up your understanding of why we have various languages. :)