devxlogo

Pure Virtual Functions Declared as Private in C++ Classes

The following code may seem strange at first sight:

class Base{private:   virtual void f() = 0;};

How can a pure virtual function be private? Will the derived class be able to override it? Actually, it’s possible for pure virtual functions to have any access modifier: private, protected, or public. Moreover, you can also change their access levels when they’re overridden in a derived class:

class Derived : public Base{public:   void f()   {      std::cout << "Overloaded public f() in Derived class
";   }};

Charlie has over a decade of experience in website administration and technology management. As the site admin, he oversees all technical aspects of running a high-traffic online platform, ensuring optimal performance, security, and user experience.

See also  Seven Service Boundary Mistakes That Create Technical Debt

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.