Speed of function vs lambda calls in python

In summary, the difference between speed of function and lambda calls in Python is that lambda calls are faster due to not needing to create a new function object. The speed of function and lambda calls can greatly affect a Python program's performance, with frequent and lengthy function calls slowing it down and lambda calls potentially improving it. Lambda calls can be used as a replacement for regular functions in certain scenarios, but not all, as they lack certain functionality. Potential disadvantages of using lambda calls include decreased readability and difficulty with debugging, as well as limited functionality for certain use cases. To determine the speed of function and lambda calls in a Python program, one can use tools such as the timeit module or profiling tools like cProfile or line_profiler.
  • #1
ergospherical
966
1,276
An observation I made earlier- something like
Python:
def f(...):
    ...
    return ...

def g:
    ... = f(...)
was quite a bit slower than doing
Python:
def g:
    f = lambda ... : ...
    ... = f(...)
any reasons why?
 
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  • #3
ergospherical said:
any reasons why?
You're redefining the lambda ##f## in every iteration of ##g##. Put the lambda definition of ##f## outside the body of ##g## and see what happens.
 

1. What is the speed of function in Python?

The speed of function in Python depends on various factors such as the complexity of the function, the hardware and operating system used, and the efficiency of the code. Generally, Python functions are considered to be slower than functions in other programming languages due to its interpreted nature.

2. How does lambda function compare to regular functions in terms of speed?

Lambda functions in Python are generally faster than regular functions because they are implemented as anonymous functions and do not require a name lookup. However, this difference in speed is minimal and may not be significant in most cases.

3. Does the number of lambda calls affect the speed of the function?

Yes, the number of lambda calls can affect the speed of the function. Each lambda call requires the creation of a new function object, which can impact the overall performance of the code. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the number of lambda calls for better speed.

4. How can I improve the speed of my functions in Python?

To improve the speed of functions in Python, you can follow some best practices such as avoiding unnecessary lambda calls, using built-in functions instead of custom functions, and optimizing the code by reducing unnecessary operations. You can also use third-party libraries like NumPy or Cython for faster computations.

5. Are there any trade-offs between speed and readability when using lambda functions?

Yes, there can be trade-offs between speed and readability when using lambda functions. While lambda functions can improve the speed of your code, they can also make it less readable and harder to debug. Therefore, it is important to strike a balance between speed and readability when deciding to use lambda functions in your code.

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