[boost] Re: return type of arithmetic operators

From: David Abrahams (dave_at_[hidden])
Date: 2004-08-08 09:02:00

beckmann.bremen_at_[hidden] (Thomas Beckmann) writes:

> Hi,
>
> I want to use the arithmetic operators from boost/operators.hpp but
> found something strange.
>
> If one takes for example boost::rational which uses boost::addable
> (and others), it is possible to write the following:
>
> boost::rational<int> x, y, z;
>
> x + y = z;
>
> This is not possible for integral types.
>
> Is this intended, considered minor or just overseen? Wouldn't it be
> better for the arithmetic operators to return const T instead of T?

It's considered minor and is intentional.  

Rationale:
  http://aspn.activestate.com/ASPN/Mail/Message/boost/1394406

-- 
Dave Abrahams
Boost Consulting
http://www.boost-consulting.com