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Method call Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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method call

[ˈmeθəd kɔːl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

programming

A method call is an operation in object-oriented programming that invokes a function associated with a particular object. It allows the object to perform certain actions or calculations.

Synonyms

function call, procedure call.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
method call

Used in object-oriented programming to refer to the invocation of a method belonging to an object. Commonly seen in languages like Java, C++, and Python.

  • In Java, you can make a method call using the dot operator: object.methodName().
  • The method call in Python looks like this: object.method_name().
function call

Used broadly in many programming languages to refer to the invocation of a function, which is a block of code designed to perform a specific task.

  • In C, a function call might look like this: result = addNumbers(5, 10);
  • In JavaScript, you call a function like this: myFunction(param1, param2);
procedure call

Often used in the context of procedural programming languages like Pascal or SQL to refer to the invocation of a procedure, which is similar to a function but may not return a value.

  • In Pascal, you would call a procedure like this: CalculateTotal;
  • In SQL, a procedure call might look like this: EXEC CalculateRevenue;

Examples of usage

  • An example of a method call is obj.method() in Python.
  • The method call triggers the execution of the code inside the method.
  • Method calls are essential for encapsulation and modularity in object-oriented programming.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A method call refers to the act of requesting or invoking a specific procedure or routine.

Synonyms

invoke, request.

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Word Description / Examples
method call

Specifically used in programming to refer to the operation of calling a method of an object. This term is technical and precise.

  • The user object requires a method call to update its email address.
  • A method call like getBalance() will retrieve the current account balance.
request

Widely used in web development and networking to describe an action where one system asks information or service from another system. It can also refer to asking for something in general life.

  • The browser sends a request to the server to fetch the data.
  • I submitted a request for a day off.
invoke

Typically used in programming to indicate that a function or method is being executed. This term is more formal and technical.

  • We need to invoke the cleanup function to free up memory.
  • The language interpreter will invoke the function when needed.

Examples of usage

  • Making a method call to the customer service hotline.
Context #3 | Verb

general

To method call means to invoke a particular function or procedure.

Synonyms

call upon, invoke.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
method call

Often used in programming or software development to indicate invoking a function or procedure.

  • In Python, a method call looks like object
  • method()
  • During the method call, arguments can be passed
invoke

Typically used in programming or legal contexts to refer to calling a method or bringing something into effect. Can also be used in a more abstract sense like 'invoke a feeling'.

  • To render the UI, you need to invoke the render method
  • The lawyer decided to invoke a particular clause in the contract
call upon

Commonly used in formal or serious contexts, such as asking for help or invoking authority.

  • The president called upon the nation to stay united
  • In times of crisis, we often call upon our elders for wisdom

Examples of usage

  • The program will method call the initialization routine upon startup.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Computer Science

  • In programming, a method is a block of code that performs a specific task, and calling it means using that block to run it.
  • Each method can have different inputs and return different outputs, similar to a vending machine that gives you a product when you put in the right coins.
  • Understanding how method calls work can help you solve complex problems by breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks.

Software Development

  • Method calls are a fundamental concept in object-oriented programming, enabling code reuse and organization.
  • They are essential for building libraries and frameworks, allowing developers to use pre-written code without having to rewrite it.
  • Popular programming languages like Java, Python, and C++ heavily utilize method calls to manage complexity in software design.

Learning Programming

  • Practicing method calls helps new programmers understand how to structure their code without getting overwhelmed.
  • Visual programming environments often show how method calls function through flowcharts or blocks, making it easier to grasp the concept.
  • Debugging often involves tracing method calls to find where things went wrong in the code execution.

Origin of 'method call'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'method' comes from the Greek 'methodos', meaning 'pursuit of knowledge'.
  • The term 'call' is derived from the Old Norse 'kalla', which means 'to shout' or 'to summon'.
  • Together, they emphasize the idea of summoning knowledge or processes to accomplish a task.

The term 'method call' originated in the field of computer science and programming, specifically in the context of object-oriented programming. It became widely used with the rise of languages like Java and C++. The concept of invoking methods associated with objects is fundamental to the principles of OOP, promoting code reusability and modularity.