Tadela Harsha Vardhan
last year
Tadelacountry asked

What is lambda function?

Abhay Jajodia
Expert
last year
Abhay Jajodia answered

Hi there! A lambda function in Python is a neat way to create small, anonymous (unnamed) functions without the usual def statement.

A lambda function is essentially a compact way to write simple functions. It's useful when you need a function for a short period, or you want to use the function just once in your program.

Here's a quick example to illustrate a lambda function:

# Regular function to add 10 to a number
def add_ten(x):
    return x + 10

# Lambda function to add 10 to a number
add_ten_lambda = lambda x: x + 10

print(add_ten(5))           # Output: 15
print(add_ten_lambda(5))    # Output: 15

In the above example, add_ten_lambda is a lambda function that performs the same task as the regular function add_ten, but it’s more concise.

Here’s the basic syntax of a lambda function:

lambda argument(s): expression

Use it whenever you need a quick, throwaway function. It fits well for short-term use like sorting, filtering, or operations involving built-in functions.

Hope this helps! Feel free to ask more if needed!

Python
This question was asked as part of the Getting started with Python course.