In the context of programming and linguistics, 'non-declarative' describes a style or approach that focuses on *how* something is done, rather than explicitly stating *what* is to be achieved. Unlike declarative methods which define the desired outcome, non-declarative approaches provide a step-by-step procedure or a set of instructions to be followed. This often involves directly manipulating variables, controlling program flow with loops and conditional statements, and specifying the exact sequence of operations. The emphasis is on process and implementation rather than the final result, promoting flexibility and control but potentially increasing complexity.
Non-declarative meaning with examples
- In contrast to SQL (a declarative language), assembly language is a non-declarative programming paradigm. It precisely specifies each machine instruction. The programmer must directly handle memory allocation and register management, giving more control at the cost of greater coding effort and error potential within the system.
- When building a user interface with a non-declarative framework, you manually create and update UI elements. The developer describes each action and event, which allows the user to update and render the screen. This contrasts with declarative methods which specify data bindings.
- Learning a new language using rote memorization involves a non-declarative approach to linguistic knowledge. You focus on remembering phrases and grammar rules. This focuses on recalling and reciting content without deeply internalizing the underlying grammatical structure or developing natural language fluency.
- Traditional imperative programming is inherently non-declarative. The code provides instructions to the computer, telling it to perform specific commands. The programmer must actively determine algorithms and execution steps to achieve the final result in the output.
- A chef following a recipe involving explicit steps such as 'stir for two minutes' and 'add salt to taste' uses a non-declarative approach. The instructions lead to a dish. Compared to culinary intuition that produces flavors through personal experience without specified steps is declarative.