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Python First-Class Functions with Examples

Last Updated : April 24, 2025

In Python, a function is a type. That's why Python function is known as "First class". So,

1. We can pass function as parameter to another function
2. We can return function as return value
3. We can define a new function inside another function (this feature is known as "Closure")

1. Pass function as parameter to another function

Python allows passing a function as a parameter to another function.

Example

# defining a function
def foo():
    print("I am foo()")

# defining another function which is receiving
# function as parameter
def koo(x):
    x()

# calling second function and passing first function
# as parameter
koo(foo)

Output

I am foo()

2. Return function as return value

Python allows returning a function as its return value.

Example

# defining first function
def foo():
    print("I am foo()")

# defining second function which is returning
# first function as return value
def koo():
    return foo

# calling second function and recieving
# reference of first function
x = koo()
x()

Output

I am foo()

3. Define a new function inside another function

Python allows defining a new function inside a function.

Example

# Function inside function
# definition of parent function
def foo():
    # definition of child function
    def koo():
        print("I am koo()")

    print("I am foo()")
    koo()

foo()

# koo() cannot be called here, because
# it's scope is limited to foo() only
# koo()  # it will not work

Output

I am foo()
I am koo()

Python First-Class Functions Exercise

Select the correct option to complete each statement about first-class functions in Python.

1. In Python, functions are treated as ___, which means they can be assigned to variables, passed as arguments, and returned from other functions. --Select-- first-class objects static members inline expressions
2. A function that takes another function as an argument is known as a ___. --Select-- high-order function lambda function recursive function
3. Returning a function from another function is an example of using functions as ___. --Select-- objects parameters return values

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