./tell

How new programming languages are created

The world of software development is constantly changing – and so are the tools that developers use. New programming languages are appearing all the time alongside well-known names such as Python, Java and JavaScript. But how is a new language actually created? Who decides which functions it gets? And why do some prevail while others fall into oblivion?

1. the reason: Why a new language at all?

New programming languages are rarely created just like that. There is usually a clear reason behind them.

Solving specific problems: Example Rust, which was supposed to offer more security in memory management than C++.
Modernization of existing concepts: Example Kotlin, which aimed to make Java more modern and leaner.
Optimization for specific platforms: Example Swift, customized for Apple ecosystems.

2. concept & design: The birth on the whiteboard

It often starts with a small development team or even just a single person. You define:

Syntax: What does the code look like? (readability, brevity, clarity)
Paradigms: Object-oriented, functional, procedural or a mixture?
Standard libraries: Which basic functions are immediately available?
Compatibility: How well can the language work natively with other languages and tools?

3. the prototype: from the draft to the first executable version

A new language must be “brought to life”:

• Develop compiler or interpreter
• Testing the core functions
• Write first documentation

In this phase, the language is often still prone to errors, but it already enables the first projects to be implemented.

4. community & feedback: the decisive factor

The community is one of the most decisive factors in determining whether a new language is successful. Without an active developer community, a programming language has almost no chance.
The community helps by finding and sometimes fixing bugs. In addition, useful libraries are often developed by the community of a language. And tutorials and application examples naturally always help a language to grow.
The stronger the community, the higher the probability that the language will become established.

5. further development

Successful languages are constantly evolving. Regular updates with new functions and performance optimizations keep a language fresh and up-to-date. A language that is not further developed will inevitably fall into oblivion.

Conclusion

New programming languages arise from the desire to make software development simpler, safer or more efficient. However, their future depends not only on technical advantages. Above all, it depends on whether they find an active and enthusiastic community.