Difference between fatal error and non-fatal error

Question

What is the main difference between fatal errors and non-fatal errors dipslayed in an IDE when one tries to compile the code?

In both cases the compiler shows an error message and the program is not compiled. Are fatal errors the undefined compiler errors in a compiler or linker?

Answer 1

A fatal error would probably stop compilation of that translation unit immediately.

A compiler may continue compiling after an error in order to reveal to you a more comprehensive list of issues.

Although in your case it appears that the preprocessor has issued the fatal error. Perhaps it's simply down to the mood of the compiler writer.