Yhn first seen 12 d ago, last 11 d ago, peak #16
The 'else' keyword in programming may come from German
Original: The 'else' keyword is probably a literal translation from German (2020)
A 2020 essay argues that the programming keyword 'else' likely originated as a literal translation of the German word 'sonst', which can mean 'else' in conditional statements. It traces the terminology back to early programming language design, suggesting German-speaking influences shaped some of the conventions still used in code today. The piece has drawn fresh attention and debate among programmers.
Why now: The etymology of a fundamental programming keyword is a surprising piece of trivia that resonates with developers.
else keywordGitHubprogramming languages
Evidence
- The 'else' keyword is probably a literal translation from German (2020) · theanonymousone · 103
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