Explain the Python Lambda with example.

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Anubhav Kumar · Answer

A lambda is a small, anonymous function (a function without a name). It can have
any number of arguments, but only one expression.
Syntax:
It’s like a shortcut for defining functions you only need once.
Normal function:
def add(x, y):
    return x + y
print(add(5, 3))  # 8
Lambda equivalent:
add = lambda x, y: x + y
print(add(5, 3))  # 8
Both work the same way, but the lambda is shorter.
1. Common Uses of Lambda
a) With map() – apply function to each item
nums = [1, 2, 3, 4]
squares = list(map(lambda x: x**2, nums))
print(squares)  # [1, 4, 9, 16]
b) With filter() – filter items
nums = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]
evens = list(filter(lambda x: x % 2 == 0, nums))
print(evens)  # [2, 4, 6]
c) With sorted() – custom sorting
words = ["apple", "banana", "cherry", "kiwi"]
sorted_words = sorted(words, key=lambda w: len(w))
print(sorted_words)  # ['kiwi', 'apple', 'banana', 'cherry']
d) Inline quick calculations
double = lambda x: x * 2
print(double(10))  # 20
2. Limitations of Lambda
Only one expression (no multiple statements).Not good for complex logic → better to use def.Used mostly for short, throwaway functions.
In short:
lambda = anonymous, single-expression function.Great with map(), filter(), reduce(), 
sorted().Keep it for small tasks, use def for larger functions.

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Explain the Python Lambda with example.

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1 Answers

Normal function:

Lambda equivalent:

1. Common Uses of Lambda

a) With `map()` – apply function to each item

b) With `filter()` – filter items

c) With `sorted()` – custom sorting

d) Inline quick calculations

2. Limitations of Lambda

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