How Can I Efficiently Initialize Arrays with the `new` Operator in C ?

How to Efficiently Initialize Arrays with the new Operator in C

When working with arrays in C , it's crucial to initialize them properly to avoid undefined behavior. While looping through and setting each element to a specific value is a common approach, there's a more efficient and "C -like" way to achieve the same result.

Value-Initialization with Special Syntax

C provides special syntax for value-initializing arrays when allocating memory with the new operator. The syntax is as follows:

new int[array_size]();

Note that the empty parentheses are essential. This initializes all elements of the array to 0, the default value for integers.

Standard Support

This method of initialization is explicitly supported by the C standard. ISO C 03 5.3.4[expr.new]/15 states that a new-expression with an initializer of the form () performs value-initialization on the object.

Advantages

Compared to using loops or memset, this method is more concise and expressive of the intent to initialize all elements to the default value. It also prevents the possibility of forgetting or mistyping elements during initialization.

Conclusion

Using empty parentheses when value-initializing arrays with the new operator is an efficient and recommended best practice in C programming. It simplifies initialization, promotes code readability, and ensures reliable and consistent results.

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