Is C# is a scripting language?

As a language expert with a focus on programming languages, I can clarify the distinction between scripting languages and compiled languages, and then address the specific case of C#. Scripting languages are typically characterized by their high-level nature, ease of use, and the ability to automate tasks. They are often interpreted, which means the code is executed line by line without a prior compilation step. However, this is not a strict rule, as some scripting languages can also be compiled to bytecode or machine code using just-in-time (JIT) compilation. Now, regarding C#: C# is not traditionally considered a scripting language. It is a compiled language, which means that C# code is typically compiled into an intermediate language called Common Intermediate Language (CIL), formerly known as Microsoft Intermediate Language (MSIL). This CIL code is then further compiled or interpreted by the .NET runtime, which can be on Windows or other platforms that support .NET. C# is designed to be a general-purpose programming language and is used for a wide range of applications, from web and desktop applications to games and mobile apps. It is a statically-typed language with a strong type system and supports object-oriented programming. Microsoft has indeed done a good job of making C# accessible and easy to use, which might give it some characteristics that are often associated with scripting languages. However, this does not change its fundamental nature as a compiled language.

First, scripting languages are not necessarily interpreted languages. Some scripting languages such as Lua and Python can be either JIT-compiled or interpreted. And, as for the question itself: because C# is a scripting language, but Microsoft does a good job on making it not look as such.