Question

Is there a way to prevent a std::set< Object*>.erase(it) function to delete memory?
I only want the Object* to be removed from the set, without freeing memory..

To be specific, I have an object that removes himself from the set and puts itself to another.
And it crashes.

set1.insert(this);    
set1.erase(set1.find(this));
set2.insert(this);

Anyone able to reproduce this? thank you!

Answer 1

Your set<Object*> already doesn’t delete the pointed-to object when you call the erase for the iterator. If it’s crashing in that area it’s for another reason. Likely causes are:

• You’re using the iterator after you erase the item.
• Missing/incorrect destructor.
• Missing/incorrect copy constructor/copy assignment operator.
• Unrelated problems with the heap such as double deletes.