devxlogo

Functions should not return a reference to a local object

Functions should not return a reference to a local object

A reference is always bound to the same object. When that object is destroyed, any use of its reference yields undefined behavior. The following example may demonstrate that:

 int & rif () {int i = 1;int &ri = i;return ri; //OOPS!  undefined results; ri is a  reference to a local int; }
devxblackblue

About Our Editorial Process

At DevX, we’re dedicated to tech entrepreneurship. Our team closely follows industry shifts, new products, AI breakthroughs, technology trends, and funding announcements. Articles undergo thorough editing to ensure accuracy and clarity, reflecting DevX’s style and supporting entrepreneurs in the tech sphere.

See our full editorial policy.

About Our Journalist