What are the differences between inline functions and regular functions?

What are the differences between inline functions and regular functions?

Inline functions are defined within the body of another function and can improve performance by reducing function call overhead. Regular functions are defined separately and can be called from anywhere in the code.

Can you give me an example of an inline function?

Sure! In C++, you can define an inline function like this:

inline int add(int a, int b) {
    return a + b;
}

This function can be called like a regular function, but the compiler attempts to expand it inline.

What are the advantages of using inline functions?

The main advantages include reduced function call overhead, potential for better optimization by the compiler, and improved performance in small, frequently called functions.

Are there any downsides to using inline functions?

Yes, if an inline function is too large, it can lead to code bloat, which may negatively impact performance. Also, debugging can be more complex.