Can We Safely Move Elements from a `std::initializer_list` in C ?

Moving Elements from std::initializer_list

In C , an initializer list, denoted as std::initializer_list, poses a question regarding the movement of its elements. Can we safely extract and move elements from such a list? Let's investigate the issue.

In the code snippet below, a function foo accepts an initializer list as an argument:

#include <initializer_list>
#include <utility>

template<typename t>
void foo(std::initializer_list<t> list)
{
    for (auto it = list.begin(); it != list.end(); ++it)
    {
        bar(std::move(*it)); // Intended to move the element
    }
}</t></typename></utility></initializer_list>

The concern arises because std::initializer_list exhibits unique characteristics that distinguish it from ordinary containers. Its elements reside in a temporary buffer and are not subject to the same value semantics as standard containers. This raises doubts about the potential for successful movement.

Unfortunately, the expectation of seamless element movement is unfounded. An attempt to move elements from an initializer list will yield unexpected results. Instead of relocating the elements, copies are created. This behavior stems from the fact that the begin and end functions in std::initializer_list return const T *, which results in an immutable rvalue reference denoted as T const &&.

Consequently, the move expression employed in bar(std::move(*it)) binds to a function parameter of type T const &, effectively preserving the copies.

The reason for this limitation is attributed to the compiler's prerogative to instantiate std::initializer_list as a statically initialized constant. Allowing mutable results from begin and end would hinder this optimization, introducing complexity in the compiler's design.

Despite the unexpected behavior, a solution may lie on the horizon. An [ISO proposal](https://github.com/CaseyCarter/iso-changes/blob/master/icpp/p1716r4.md) seeks to introduce initializer list support for move-only types. This effort aims to enhance the language's capabilities and provide a more consistent approach to working with initializer lists and move semantics.

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