clang++

Compile a set of source code files into an executable binary

$ clang++ [path/to/source1.cpp path/to/source2.cpp ...] [[-o|--output]] [path/to/output_executable]

$ clang++ [path/to/source.cpp] -Wall [[-o|--output]] [output_executable]

$ clang++ [path/to/source.cpp] -Wall [[-g|--debug]] -Og [[-o|--output]] [path/to/output_executable]

$ clang++ [path/to/source.cpp] -std=[c++20] [[-o|--output]] [path/to/output_executable]

$ clang++ [path/to/source.cpp] [[-o|--output]] [path/to/output_executable] -I[path/to/header_path] -L[path/to/library_path] -l[path/to/library_name]

$ clang++ [[-S|--assemble]] -emit-llvm [path/to/source.cpp] [[-o|--output]] [path/to/output.ll]

$ clang++ [path/to/source.cpp] -O[1|2|3|fast] [[-o|--output]] [path/to/output_executable]

$ clang++ --version

clang++ [options] file...

-o
    Specify the output file name. For example,
clang++ main.cpp -o myprogram creates an
executable named 'myprogram'.

-c
    Compile only, do not link. This produces
an object file (e.g., .o or .obj)
from a source file.

-S
    Assemble only, do not link. This generates
an assembly language file (e.g., .s or
.asm) from a source file.

-E
    Preprocess only. This runs the C++
preprocessor and outputs the result to standard
output or a specified file, without compiling
or linking.

-I

clang++ is the driver program for the
Clang C++ compiler, which is a component
of the
LLVM project. It serves as a modern,
fast, and highly standards-compliant
alternative to traditional C++ compilers
like g++ (the GNU C++ compiler).
Its primary function is to translate C++
source files into machine code, object files,
or complete executables.

A defining characteristic of clang++ is
its exceptionally clear and helpful diagnostic
messages, which often provide precise details
and 'fix-it' suggestions for errors and
warnings. This significantly aids developers
in debugging. Built with a modular
architecture, clang++ also facilitates
deep integration into development tools such
as Integrated Development Environments (IDEs),
static analyzers, and code formatters. It
strives for strict adherence to C++ language
standards, contributing to the portability and
correctness of compiled code across various
platforms and systems.

While clang++ offers numerous advantages,
users should be aware of a few considerations:

clang++ typically relies on the
system-default linker (such as ld on Linux)
for the final linking stage. This means that
specific linker flags might still be required
or behave differently than with other compilers.
A full LLVM toolchain (including
assemblers, optimizers, and linkers) must be
properly installed and configured for
clang++ to function correctly.
Compatibility with very old or highly
non-standard C++ codebases may occasionally
require specific compiler flags or minor
code adjustments.

clang++ is widely acclaimed for its detailed
and user-friendly error and warning
messages. Unlike many compilers that provide
minimal information, clang++ often includes
'fix-it' suggestions, highlights the exact
problematic code segments, and offers
contextual explanations. This significantly
streamlines the debugging process for developers.

Built upon the extensible LLVM infrastructure,
clang++ features a highly modular design.
This architecture facilitates the creation of
a rich ecosystem of powerful development
tools, such as static analyzers (e.g.,
Clang-Tidy), code formatters (e.g.,
Clang-Format), refactoring tools, and
deep integration within Integrated Development
Environments (IDEs) for real-time error
checking, code completion, and navigation.

The Clang C++ compiler, which clang++
drives, originated as part of the
LLVM project, initiated by Apple Inc. in
2007. Its development aimed to create a
modern, modular compiler infrastructure with
a more developer-friendly BSD license, in
contrast to the GPL license of GCC.
clang++ rapidly gained prominence due to
its superior compilation speed, exceptionally
clear error diagnostics, and robust support
for evolving C++ language standards. It became
the default compiler on macOS and has been
widely adopted across various sectors, including
Android's NDK, academic research, open-source
projects, and commercial software development,
solidifying its position as a leading C++
compiler.

clang(1), g++(1), gcc(1), ld(1), make(1), cmake(1)