What is the use of the "eval" function in Python?

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Jayant Kumar · Accepted Answer

In Python, the eval() function is a built-in function used to evaluate a string expression or code dynamically. It takes a string as input and executes it as a Python expression or statement. The eval() function returns the result of the evaluated expression.
The general syntax of the eval() function is as follows:
eval(expression[, globals[, locals]])

expression: A string representing a Python expression or code that you want to evaluate.
globals (optional): A dictionary that represents the global symbol table. It provides the global namespace for the evaluation. If not provided, the globals from the current context are used.
locals (optional): A dictionary that represents the local symbol table. It provides the local namespace for the evaluation. If not provided, the locals from the current context are used.

Here's an example to demonstrate the usage of the eval() function:
x = 10
result = eval('x + 5')

print(result)  # Output: 15

In this example, the eval() function is used to evaluate the expression 'x + 5'. The value of the variable x from the current context is used in the evaluation, resulting in the value 15.
The eval() function is particularly useful when you need to execute dynamically generated code or evaluate mathematical or logical expressions provided as strings. It allows you to treat strings as executable code at runtime.
However, it's important to use the eval() function with caution, especially when the input comes from an untrusted source. Evaluating arbitrary code can pose security risks and lead to unintended consequences. Therefore, it's recommended to avoid using eval() with untrusted or unsanitized input.
If you need to evaluate expressions that involve only basic arithmetic operations, you can consider using the ast.literal_eval() function. It provides a safer alternative to eval() by evaluating literal expressions without executing arbitrary code.
Overall, the eval() function provides a powerful mechanism to evaluate strings as Python code dynamically, allowing for flexible and expressive programming. However, it should be used judiciously and with proper precautions.

What is the use of the "eval" function in Python?

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What is the use of the "eval" function in Python?

Jayant Kumar @jayantkumar314

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