Multi Paradigm Programming Language
A multi paradigm program language is a computer language that provides several abstraction mechanisms. Such languages allow programmers to decide by themselves which major paradigm to use when developing a program.
Multi paradigm languages can be classified according to the type of programming paradigm they support, and to what extent the support is present in the language.
If the language support a major programming paradigm and others are present only as extensions, then the language can be classified into a major paradigm. For example, if a language is largely imperative but offers functional programming features, then it is a multi paradigm programming language that has functional programming as an extension.
Several major programming languages can be considered as multi paradigm languages. As languages mature, they usually incorporate features that make them suite for more than one major style of programming. Thus, successful programming languages end up becoming multi paradigm languages.
Examples of multi paradigm Programming Languages
There are some major programming languages that can be classified as multi paradigmatic. C++ is one of the greatest examples. C++ started as an extension of the C language. The original goal of C++ was to add object orientation support into C.
As it evolved, C++ added support for other programming methodologies, such as meta-programming through templates. More recently, C++ is incorporating features from functional programming languages, such as lambda functions.
Common Lisp is another example of language that supports multiple programming paradigms. Its main paradigms are symbolic programming and functional programming. However, Common Lisp also supports object oriented programming (through CLOS) and imperative styles of programming.
Conclusion
Multi paradigm languages provide several ways for programmers to express their implementations. As such, they can be used to create programs that more directly express the intent of the programmer. Many languages evolve to include multi programming paradigms in order to provide additional expressive power.
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