> > And I cringe about calling a byte a character.

> I'm not sure what you mean?

A byte is commonly defined as 8 bits.

Encode says

While most other sources - like WP - say "UTF-8 is encoding characters using one to four one-byte units".

This will make reader stumble into paradoxical mental loops. ( -> a character is encoded by 1-4 characters ... WTF? )

As you pointed out are most (not all) string operators in Perl "character" based. (Those should maybe be better called "text operators")

What comprises a "character" in a Perl-string depends on the "UTF8 flag"

If a terminology invites for misunderstandings one should chose a new word.

Cheers Rolf
(addicted to the 𐍀𐌴𐍂𐌻 Programming Language :)
Wikisyntax for the Monastery

In reply to Re^15: Seeking Perl docs about how UTF8 flag propagates (Terminology) by LanX
in thread Seeking Perl docs about how UTF8 flag propagates by raygun

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