[Python-Dev] Re: PEP 309, function currying

[Peter Harris]

Greg Ewing wrote:

> But isn't that just as wrong as the first version? It still seems
>
>to be describing partial application, not currying as you defined
>it above. Maybe it should say
>
>   Function currying is the process of transforming a function that
>   takes n arguments into a function that takes one argument and
>   returns another function (itself also curried, if n > 2) that
>   takes the remaining n-1 arguments.
>
>  
>
Yes, that's currying alright, which PEP 309 does in no way describe.
Hmm.
OK, there is way too much imprecise thinking behind that PEP. Sorry.

I did originally describe it as a closure in the first version, then
someone corrected me about that too.  I'll give the wording some more
thought, but the problem I have is that to be useful, the class or function
that implements it has to have a wieldy and clear name.

Myself, I wouldn't like to use PartiallyApply(fn,*args,**kw).

Quick unscientific name poll.  Who likes...
* curry()

* closure()

* partial()

* partial_apply()

* delayed()

* other ?

Thanks for your thoughts, folks.

Peter Harris
scav at blueyonder, co, uk