getattr()
OOPReturns the value of a named attribute, with optional default if attribute doesn't exist.
Signature
getattr(object, name, default)
Returns
anyExample
class User:
name = 'Alice'
u = User()
print(getattr(u, 'name')) # 'Alice'
print(getattr(u, 'age', 'unknown')) # 'unknown'About getattr()
getattr is a Python oop function with the signature getattr(object, name, default). Returns the value of a named attribute, with optional default if attribute doesn't exist. It returns a value of type any.
Python provides a rich set of built-in functions and standard library modules that cover common programming tasks. Understanding these functions helps you write more idiomatic, efficient Python code. The getattrfunction is commonly used in data processing, web development, scripting, and automation tasks.
When working with getattr(), consider edge cases like empty inputs, None values, and type mismatches. Python's duck typing means many built-in functions work with any object that implements the required protocol (e.g., __len__ for len(), __iter__ for iteration). This flexibility is a key strength of Python's design philosophy.