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Finding Compiler Bugs through Cross-Language Code Generator and Differential Testing

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Abstract

Compilers play a central role in translating high-level code into
executable programs, making their correctness essential for ensuring code
safety and reliability. While extensive research has focused on verifying
the correctness of compilers for single-language compilation, the
correctness of cross-language compilation - which involves the interaction
between two languages and their respective compilers - remains largely
unexplored. To fill this research gap, we propose CrossLangFuzzer, a novel
framework that introduces a universal intermediate representation (IR) for
JVM-based languages and automatically generates cross-language test
programs with diverse type parameters and complex inheritance structures.
After generating the initial IR, CrossLangFuzzer applies three mutation
techniques - LangShuffler, FunctionRemoval, and TypeChanger - to enhance
program diversity. By evaluating both the original and mutated programs
across multiple compiler versions, CrossLangFuzzer successfully uncovered
10 confirmed bugs in the Kotlin compiler, 4 confirmed bugs in the Groovy
compiler, 7 confirmed bugs in the Scala 3 compiler, 2 confirmed bugs in
the Scala 2 compiler, and 1 confirmed bug in the Java compiler. Among all
mutators, TypeChanger is the most effective, detecting 11 of the 24
compiler bugs. Furthermore, we analyze the symptoms and root causes of
cross-compilation bugs, examining the respective responsibilities of
language compilers when incorrect behavior occurs during cross-language
compilation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the firstwork
specifically focused on identifying and diagnosing compiler bugs in
cross-language compilation scenarios. Our research helps to understand
these challenges and contributes to improving compiler correctness in
multi-language environments.

https://arxiv.org/abs/2507.06584

Regards,
John Levine, johnl@taugh.com, Taughannock Networks, Trumansburg NY
Please consider the environment before reading this e-mail. https://jl.ly

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Finding Compiler Bugs through Cross-Language Code Generator and Differential Testing John R Levine <johnl@taugh.com> - 2025-07-10 14:54 -0400

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