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