Function call Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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function call

[ˈfʌŋkʃən kɔːl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

programming

A function call is a statement that tells the computer to execute a specific function. It typically consists of the function name followed by parentheses containing any arguments that need to be passed to the function.

Synonyms

calling a function, function invocation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
function call	Use this term in technical documents or programming discussions when you want to specify that a function is being executed or activated. This is the most neutral and standard term in programming. You can optimize your code by reducing the number of function calls within the loop
function invocation	This term is more formal and could be used in technical documentation or advanced programming discussions to emphasize the process of executing a function, especially when discussing more complex mechanisms like recursion or context. The function invocation creates a new execution context on the stack
calling a function	This phrase is generally used in more explanatory or conversational contexts, often when teaching or explaining the concept to beginners. When calling a function, make sure to pass the correct parameters

Word

Description / Examples

function call

Use this term in technical documents or programming discussions when you want to specify that a function is being executed or activated. This is the most neutral and standard term in programming.

You can optimize your code by reducing the number of function calls within the loop

function invocation

This term is more formal and could be used in technical documentation or advanced programming discussions to emphasize the process of executing a function, especially when discussing more complex mechanisms like recursion or context.

The function invocation creates a new execution context on the stack

calling a function

This phrase is generally used in more explanatory or conversational contexts, often when teaching or explaining the concept to beginners.

When calling a function, make sure to pass the correct parameters

Examples of usage

Example 1: In Python, you can make a function call by simply typing the function name followed by parentheses.
Example 2: The function call 'print('Hello, World!')' will output 'Hello, World!' to the console.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Computer Science

In programming, a function is a reusable block of code that can be executed whenever needed, improving efficiency.
Calling a function allows for cleaner code and helps avoid repetition by allowing the same task to be executed multiple times.

Mathematics

In mathematics, a function maps inputs to outputs, similar to how a function call in programming takes input values to perform tasks.
The concept of functions in math precedes programming by centuries, laying the foundation for how functions are structured in code.

Pop Culture

The idea of a 'function call' is often simplified in tech-themed cartoons and shows, with characters using tech gadgets to 'call' their favorite functions.
Movies showcasing programming like 'The Social Network' often glamorize the coding process, highlighting the importance of functions in tech innovation.

Psychology

The process of understanding how to make function calls can involve cognitive skills like memory and problem-solving, crucial for learning programming.
People often learn better when they understand the purpose behind function calls, helping them visualize coding as a series of logical steps.

Origin of 'function call'

Main points about word origin

The word 'function' comes from the Latin 'functio', meaning 'to perform' or 'execute'.
In programming, 'call' refers to using a name to request a task, derived from Old Norse 'kalla', meaning 'to call'.

The concept of function calls originated in computer programming languages as a way to modularize code and improve reusability. It allows programmers to define a block of code that can be executed multiple times without having to rewrite the same instructions. Function calls have become a fundamental building block of modern programming languages.