Lambda Functions
3 min read ·
A lambda function in Python is a small anonymous function.
Anonymous means the function does not have a name.
It is used when you need a short function for a short period of time.
Basic Syntax
A lambda function is written using the
lambda keyword.The expression is executed and returned automatically.
Important
Lambda functions can have multiple arguments but only one expression.
Why Use Lambda Functions?
Lambda functions are useful when
You need a short one line function
You want cleaner and shorter code
You want to pass a function as an argument
They are commonly used with built in functions like
map, filter, and sorted.Lambda vs Normal Function
Normal Function Example
Same Logic Using Lambda
Lambda with One Argument
Lambda with Multiple Arguments
Lambda with Conditional Logic
Lambda with map Function
Lambda with filter Function
Lambda with sorted Function
Real World Scenario
Sorting data based on price, rating, or score is commonly done using lambda functions.
Lambda Inside Another Function
Limitations of Lambda Functions
Lambda functions
Cannot contain multiple statements
Cannot use loops
Cannot use try except
Caution
Use lambda only when logic is simple and readable.
When Not to Use Lambda
Avoid lambda when
Logic is complex
Debugging is required
Function needs reuse
Stop
If readability suffers, replace lambda with a normal function.
Exercise
Create a lambda function that
Accepts a number
Returns Positive if number is greater than zero
Returns Negative if number is less than zero
Returns Zero if number is zero