I'm curious why most JavaScript developers prefer to use the term 'arrow functions' rather than 'lambda functions.' While I know that in JavaScript both arrow functions and regular functions can serve as lambda functions, it seems that the terminology varies across programming languages. Why is there this distinction, and what are the implications for how we understand functions in JavaScript?
4 Answers
The term 'lambda' originates from lambda calculus, where the symbol represents anonymous functions. In JavaScript, arrow functions are a common way to write these anonymous functions, so it's understandable that the two terms have become synonymous within the community.
The naming difference also comes from how languages define functions. In many cases, normal functions are static, while lambdas are often defined ad hoc. JavaScript has always allowed inline functions, so it makes sense to simply call them functions without needing a separate term.
It's interesting to note that not all languages follow this, though. For example, languages like Swift and Go have their own terminologies. In JavaScript, function support is robust enough that there’s really no need for extra terminology like 'lambda.' It’s all just functions here!
In JavaScript, both arrow functions and regular functions can be considered lambda functions since they're first-class citizens. Arrow functions simply provide a more convenient syntax, especially for handling the 'this' context, which is why they might be preferred. But, overall, they still function like standard functions in many ways.
Exactly! Lambda functions are typically anonymous, which fits into JavaScript's flexible function handling. Arrow functions simplify things like 'this' binding, but at the end of the day, they're just another way to define functions.
True! A function is a function in JS, regardless of how it's expressed.