57. What is a characteristic of an interpreted language?

Answer: C

Explanation:

Can be run by a user one statement at a time

Interpreted languages are designed to execute code line by line, allowing users to run individual statements interactively. This flexibility enables developers to test and debug code in real-time.

A) Generate syntax errors during compilation

This option misrepresents the nature of interpreted languages. While syntax errors can occur in interpreted languages, they are typically flagged at runtime rather than during a compilation phase, which is not applicable to interpreted languages.

B) Has a programmer writing machine code

This statement is incorrect because interpreted languages abstract the underlying machine code from the programmer. Instead, they allow programmers to write code in higher-level languages that are then interpreted at runtime, eliminating the need for direct machine code writing.

C) Can be run by a user one statement at a time

This option accurately describes a key feature of interpreted languages. They allow users to execute code incrementally, which facilitates immediate feedback and interactive programming sessions.

D) Is restricted to running on one machine

This choice is incorrect as interpreted languages are not inherently limited to a single machine. They can often run on various platforms as long as the appropriate interpreter is available, making them versatile across different systems.

Conclusion

The correct answer, C, highlights the interactive nature of interpreted languages, which is a defining characteristic. In contrast, options A, B, and D fail to capture the essential qualities of interpreted languages, thus reinforcing why C is the most accurate choice.