What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
precompile
Example
The Rails application precompiles its assets before deployment. [precompiles: verb]
Example
Precompiling your code can save time during the compilation process. [precompiling: gerund or present participle]
compile
Example
The C++ code was compiled into an executable file. [compiled: past tense]
Example
Compiling your code can help catch errors before runtime. [compiling: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Compile is a more common term than precompile and is used across a wide range of programming languages. Precompile is more commonly associated with web development languages like Ruby on Rails.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between precompile and compile?
Both precompile and compile are technical terms used in programming and are therefore more formal in tone. However, compile is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
