Lambda Functions

Let us get an overview of Lambda Functions in Python. They are also known as anonymous functions in other programming languages.

  • A lambda function is a function which does not have name associated with it.

  • It starts with the keyword lambda.

  • Typically we have simple one liners as part of lambda functions.

  • There are restrictions while passing or creating lambda functions.

    • You cannot have return statement

    • Assignment operation is not allowed

  • Use lambda functions only when the functionality is simple and not used very often.

def my_sum(lb, ub, f):
    total = 0
    for i in range(lb, ub + 1):
        total += f(i)
    return total
def i(n): return n # typical function, for lambda def and function are replaced by keyword lambda
my_sum(5, 10, i)
my_sum(5, 10, lambda n: n)
my_sum(5, 10, lambda n: n * n)
my_sum(5, 10, lambda n: n * n * n)
def even(n): return n if n % 2 == 0 else 0 # Another example for typical function
my_sum(5, 10, even)
my_sum(5, 10, lambda n: n if n % 2 == 0 else 0)
my_sum(5, 10, lambda n: n if n % 3 == 0 else 0)