Bjarne Stroustrup on the Two Types of Programming Languages

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Bjarne Stroustrup, the creator of the C++ programming language, has offered a blunt assessment of the programming language landscape, framing the industry’s relationship with tools in a way that challenges both developers and critics. In a recent interview, Stroustrup stated that We find only two types of programming languages: those that people complain about, and those that nobody uses. The observation underscores a long-standing tension in software engineering: the balance between utility and dissatisfaction.

The remark, published by Computer Hoy on April 19, 2026, reflects Stroustrup’s perspective on the evolution of programming languages and the expectations placed on them. C++, now over 40 years old, remains one of the most widely used languages in systems programming, game development, and high-performance applications. Despite its enduring relevance, it has faced persistent criticism—particularly around complexity, memory management, and the challenge of modernizing without breaking backward compatibility.

Stroustrup’s insight aligns with broader industry discussions about the lifecycle of programming languages. While languages like Python and Rust have gained popularity for their simplicity and safety features, C++ continues to dominate domains where performance and low-level control are critical. Stroustrup has previously emphasized that C++ was designed to address real-world problems, including the need to bridge high-level abstractions with low-level systems control—a challenge that persists today.

In a 2025 interview with DevClass, Stroustrup addressed the difficulty of replacing C++ in certain contexts, noting that the problem with trying to replace C++ is that it’s deeply embedded in industries like finance, gaming, and embedded systems. He also highlighted the risks of overhauling a language that has been refined over decades, arguing that incremental improvements are often more practical than radical redesigns.

Stroustrup’s latest observation also touches on the broader debate about language design. While some developers advocate for minimalist, easy-to-learn languages, others argue that complexity is sometimes necessary to achieve performance or precision. His comment suggests that dissatisfaction with a language—whether due to its syntax, tooling, or ecosystem—does not necessarily equate to its obsolescence.

For junior developers, Stroustrup’s perspective offers a cautionary note: the pursuit of a “perfect” language may be misguided. Instead, the focus should be on mastering tools that solve real problems, even if they come with trade-offs. As Stroustrup has noted in previous discussions, the best language is the one that helps you solve the problem at hand.

C++ remains a cornerstone of modern software infrastructure, powering everything from operating systems to high-frequency trading platforms. Its longevity is a testament to its adaptability, but it also reflects the enduring challenge of balancing innovation with stability in programming language design.

There are only two types of programming languages: those that people complain about, and those that nobody uses.

Bjarne Stroustrup, creator of C++

Stroustrup’s remarks resonate particularly in 2026, a year marked by ongoing debates about the future of programming languages. As AI and automation reshape software development, the tension between usability and capability continues to define the industry. For now, C++ endures—not as a language without flaws, but as one that has proven indispensable despite them.

For further context, Stroustrup’s interviews and talks are available on his official site, where he continues to discuss the evolution of C++ and its role in modern computing.

Source: Bjarne Stroustrup’s Interviews

Source: DevClass Interview (2025)

Source: Stack Overflow (2026)

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