Functions with generic parameter types

Question

I am trying to figure out how to define a function that works on multiple types of parameters (e.g. int and int64). As I understand it, function overloading is not possible

Answer 1

Yes, this can be done. Take a look at this hubFS thread.

In this case, the solution would be:

let inline retype (x:'a) : 'b = (# "" x : 'b #)
let inline sqrt_int (n:'a) = retype (sqrt (float n)) : 'a

Caveat: no compile-time type checking. I.e. sqrt_int "blabla" compiles fine but you'll get a FormatException at runtime.