Python Lambda
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Python lambda is a shorthand way of creating small, anonymous functions. These functions are known as lambda functions or lambda expressions. Lambda functions are commonly used in Python for simple tasks that can be done in a single line of code. In this blog, we'll discuss the basics of lambda functions and how they can be used in Python.
Syntax
The syntax of a lambda function is as follows:
lambda arguments : expression
Here, arguments
are the parameters that the lambda function takes, and expression
is the operation or calculation that the function performs. Lambda functions can take any number of arguments, separated by commas, but can only have a single expression.
Example
Let's look at a simple example of a lambda function:
f = lambda x: x**2 print(f(3))
Here, we define a lambda function f
that takes a single argument x
and returns its square. We then call the function with the argument 3
, which returns 9
.
Use Cases
Lambda functions are commonly used in Python for small, one-off functions that don't require a formal definition. Some common use cases include:
- Sorting: Lambda functions are commonly used with the built-in
sorted()
function to sort a list of elements based on a specific criteria.
Here, we use a lambda function to sort the list of names in a case-insensitive manner.
- Filtering: Lambda functions are also commonly used with the built-in
filter()
function to filter elements from a list based on a specific criteria.
Here, we use a lambda function to filter out the even numbers from a list of numbers.
- Mapping: Lambda functions are also commonly used with the built-in
map()
function to apply a function to each element in a list.
Here, we use a lambda function to square each number in a list of numbers.
Conclusion
Lambda functions are a powerful tool in Python for quickly creating small, anonymous functions. They are commonly used in sorting, filtering, and mapping, but can be used in any situation where a small, one-off function is needed. While lambda functions can be a bit difficult to read at first, with practice they can become a valuable tool in your Python toolbox.
Happy Learning!! Happy Coding!!
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