Force CMake to use C++ compiler for C files with Visual Studio

Question

I have generated .h and .c files which must be compiled as C++ files with Visual Studio. I heard I could do something like set_source_files_properties( ${SOURCES} PROPERTIES LANGUAGE "CXX" ). In parallel, I have read that I should not do that as it should used only in exotic situations.

So, what is the best way to force CMake to generate VS projects which compiles C files as C++ files?

PS: renaming the generated files is not an option.

Answer 1

I have been using the individual properties (most likely you can also set directory properties - but this is not as fine grained) without any problems. Not for setting the language though (but why should it be any different?):

SET_SOURCE_FILES_PROPERTIES( file1.c PROPERTIES LANGUAGE CXX )

This works under Linux and Windows and doesn't seem to pose any problems. What have you heard that makes you hesitate?