What is the difference between const and immutable?

Definitions

const

- Referring to a variable in programming that cannot be reassigned once it has been initialized.

- Used to declare a constant value in programming that cannot be changed during runtime.

- Talking about a keyword in programming languages like JavaScript, C++, and Java that is used to define a read-only reference to a value.

immutable

- Describing an object or data structure that cannot be modified after it has been created.

- Referring to a property of an object in programming that cannot be changed once it has been set.

- Talking about a characteristic of data types in programming languages like Python and Ruby that cannot be altered once they are created.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both const and immutable refer to values that cannot be changed.
• 2. Both are used in programming to ensure data integrity and prevent errors.
• 3. Both are associated with the concept of immutability, which means that something cannot be changed.

What is the difference?

• 1. Usage: const is used to declare variables that cannot be reassigned, while immutable is used to describe objects or data structures that cannot be modified.
• 2. Scope: const is typically used within a block or function scope, while immutable can apply to an entire object or data structure.
• 3. Data types: const can be used with any data type, while immutable is usually associated with specific data types like strings, tuples, and frozen sets.
• 4. Syntax: const is a keyword in some programming languages, while immutable is an adjective used to describe a property or characteristic of an object or data structure.
• 5. Purpose: const is used to declare variables that should not be reassigned for clarity and maintainability, while immutable is used to ensure that data remains consistent and unchanged throughout the program.

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Remember this!

Const and immutable are both related to the concept of immutability in programming. However, const is used to declare variables that cannot be reassigned, while immutable is used to describe objects or data structures that cannot be modified. The main difference between the two is their usage and scope.