Python Reserved Words

Python, like any other programming language, has a set of reserved words, also known as keywords. These are words that have special meaning and cannot be used as identifiers such as variable names, function names, or any other identifiers. In this tutorial, we will explore Python’s reserved words, their purpose, and how to use them in your code.

What are Python Reserved Words?

Python reserved words are predefined, built-in words that have special syntactical significance in the Python language. They are part of the Python language syntax, and each of these words is associated with a specific function in Python.

These words are reserved for specific operations and cannot be used for any other purpose. For example, you cannot use a reserved word as a variable name, function name, or any other identifier. Doing so would result in a syntax error.

List of Python Reserved Words

Python has 33 reserved words. Here they are:

  • and
  • as
  • assert
  • break
  • class
  • continue
  • def
  • del
  • elif
  • else
  • except
  • False
  • finally
  • for
  • from
  • global
  • if
  • import
  • in
  • is
  • lambda
  • None
  • nonlocal
  • not
  • or
  • pass
  • raise
  • return
  • True
  • try
  • while
  • with
  • yield

Each of these words has a specific function in Python, and we will explore some of them in the following sections.

Understanding Python Reserved Words

Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly used Python reserved words and their functions:

  • and: This is a logical operator in Python. It returns True if both the operands (values on the sides) are true.
  • break: This reserved word is used to alter the flow of a normal loop. The loop stops and the control moves to the next statement after the loop.
  • class: This keyword is used to declare user-defined classes.
  • if, elif, else: These are conditional statements in Python.
  • def: This keyword is used to declare user-defined functions.
  • import: This keyword is used to include a particular module into the current program.
  • return: This keyword is used to exit a function and return a value.
  • True, False: These are boolean values in Python.

Conclusion

Understanding Python’s reserved words is crucial for writing effective Python code. These words, each having a specific function, form the building blocks of Python programming. Remember, these words are case-sensitive and must be used exactly as they are. Misuse of these words can result in syntax errors, so it’s important to use them correctly in your code.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What are Python reserved words?

    Python reserved words are predefined, built-in words that have special syntactical significance in the Python language. They are part of the Python language syntax, and each of these words is associated with a specific function in Python.

  2. Can I use a Python reserved word as a variable name?

    No, Python reserved words cannot be used as variable names, function names, or any other identifiers. Doing so would result in a syntax error.

  3. How many reserved words are there in Python?

    Python has 33 reserved words.

  4. Are Python reserved words case-sensitive?

    Yes, Python reserved words are case-sensitive. They must be used exactly as they are.

  5. What is the function of the import reserved word in Python?

    The import keyword is used to include a particular module into the current program.

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