Calling and using the result of a function inside another function (Python)?

Question

I think I'm just unaware of some basic syntax here.

The following code gives an error "global name 'adder' is not defined".

def math(a, b):
    adder = a + b
    return adder

def usesmath(x, y):
    math(6, 4)
    subtractor = adder - (x + y)
    print subtractor

usesmath(3, 2)

Clearly, this doesn't work because the variable 'adder' does not exist within usesmath(); how can I make the variable be recognised?

adder = math(6, 4). This is not basic syntax, it's basic semantics: a function returns a value without a name. — Fred Foo
– Fred Foo, Commented May 6, 2014 at 17:45
You need to learn what [scope](en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scope_(computer_science%29) is. — NullUserException
– NullUserException, Commented May 6, 2014 at 17:45
@user3599580 First, do not use tabs in your code, use spaces. It will save you a lot of headache. — Jan Vlcinsky
– Jan Vlcinsky, Commented May 6, 2014 at 17:46

dano · Accepted Answer · 2014-05-06 17:45:15Z

1

You want this inside usesmath: adder = math(6, 4)

answered May 6, 2014 at 17:45

dano

95.5k21 gold badges234 silver badges231 bronze badges

Sign up to request clarification or add additional context in comments.

3 Comments

El Confuso Over a year ago

@Sergio Martinez Will do - it says I have to wait 10 min.

Sergio Martinez Over a year ago

@user3599580 okay sorry for that :)

dano Over a year ago

@user3599580 If math() returned a tuple, adder would get assigned to the tuple. I have a feeling you're trying to get at something specific with that question, but I'm not sure what it is.

Collectives™ on Stack Overflow

Calling and using the result of a function inside another function (Python)?

1 Answer 1

3 Comments

Your Answer

Hot Network Questions

Collectives™ on Stack Overflow

1 Answer 1

3 Comments

Your Answer

Sign up or log in

Post as a guest

Related