What is the difference between a class and a metaclass in Python?Alex K
In Python, a class is a blueprint or template for creating objects, while a metaclass is a class that defines the behavior of other classes. The distinction lies in their roles and how they interact with objects and other classes. 1. Class: A class in Python is a user-defined type that encapsulates attributes (variables) and behaviors (methods) of objects. It defines the structure and behavior of objects that belong to it. When you create an instance (object) of a class, you are creating a specific instance that conforms to the attributes and behaviors defined in the class. Here's an example of a class in Python:
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class Person: def __init__(self, name): self.name = name def greet(self): print(f"Hello, my name is {self.name}.") # Usage: person = Person("Alice") person.greet() # Output: Hello, my name is Alice.
In the above code,Person
is a class that represents a person. It has attributes (e.g.,name
) and a behavior (e.g.,greet()
) defined as methods. An instance of thePerson
class,person
, can be created with a specific name and can invoke thegreet()
method.
2. Metaclass:
A metaclass, sometimes referred to as a "class of classes," is a class that defines the behavior and structure of other classes. It allows you to customize the creation and behavior of classes. In Python, metaclasses are created by defining a class that subclasses thetype
class.
Here's an example of a metaclass in Python:
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class SingletonMetaclass(type): _instances = {} def __call__(cls, *args, **kwargs): if cls not in cls._instances: cls._instances[cls] = super
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