C++ offers a compact way to write if...else
statements using the ternary operator (? :
). This operator condenses decision-making logic into a single line, making code more readable and efficient.
How the Ternary Operator Works
Instead of writing a full if...else
statement, the ternary operator allows for a quick evaluation of a condition.
Syntax
variable = (condition) ? expressionTrue : expressionFalse;
- If the condition is true, the expressionTrue is executed.
- If false, the expressionFalse runs instead.
Example: Traditional if...else
Statement
#include <iostream> using namespace std; int main() { int temperature = 30; if (temperature < 25) { cout << "It's a cool day."; } else { cout << "It's a warm day."; } return 0; }
Example: Using the Ternary Operator
The same logic written more concisely:
#include <iostream> #include <string> using namespace std; int main() { int temperature = 30; string weatherStatus = (temperature < 25) ? "It's a cool day." : "It's a warm day."; cout << weatherStatus; return 0; }