Function vs. Method — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 22, 2023
A function is a reusable block of code that performs a specific task and can exist independently. A method is a function that is associated with an object and typically manipulates the object's state.
Difference Between Function and Method
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Functions and methods are both constructs in programming that allow code to be reusable and modular. Functions are typically defined in a program to carry out a specific task and can be invoked independently of any object. Methods, on the other hand, are functions that are bound to a specific object or class, often manipulating the object's state or calling other methods on the same object.
In many programming languages like Python, functions can be defined globally or locally within other functions, and they can be passed as arguments to other functions. Methods are usually part of the definition of a class and are invoked using the object as the context. Essentially, all methods are functions, but not all functions are methods.
The syntax and invocation for functions and methods can differ. Functions are generally called by their name, followed by parentheses that may contain arguments. Methods are called using the object they are associated with, often using the dot (.) operator, followed by the method name and parentheses.
While functions are useful for tasks that don't require an object context, methods are vital for object-oriented programming. Methods allow data encapsulation and provide a way to interact with an object's data and functions. Functions, being more generic, can be employed in both procedural and object-oriented programming.
Comparison Chart
Association
Independent
Bound to an object or class
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Context
No object context
Object context
Syntax
Called by name and parentheses
Called using an object and dot operator
Usage
Procedural and Object-Oriented
Primarily Object-Oriented
Data Manipulation
Typically stateless
Often changes the state of an object
Compare with Definitions
Function
Function is a block of code designed to perform a specific task.
The print() function displays text on the screen.
Method
Method is a function associated with an object.
The .append() method adds an element to a list.
Function
Function may or may not return a value.
The function returned the sum of the two numbers.
Method
Method often manipulates the state of the object it's bound to.
The .toUpperCase() method converted the string to uppercase.
Function
An activity that is natural to or the purpose of a person or thing
Bridges perform the function of providing access across water
Bodily functions
Method
Method is invoked using the object it belongs to.
We used the object to call the draw() method.
Function
A relation or expression involving one or more variables
The function (bx + c)
Method
Method supports object-oriented programming principles.
The method encapsulated the logic for data validation.
Function
A thing dependent on another factor or factors
Class shame is a function of social power
Method
Method is typically defined within a class.
The class had a method to calculate the area.
Function
A large or formal social event or ceremony
He was obliged to attend party functions
Method
A means or manner of procedure, especially a regular and systematic way of accomplishing something
A simple method for making a pie crust.
Mediation as a method of solving disputes. See Usage Note at methodology.
Function
Work or operate in a proper or particular way
Her liver is functioning normally
Method
Orderly arrangement of parts or steps to accomplish an end
Random efforts that lack method.
Function
A person's role or occupation
In my function as chief editor.
Method
The procedures and techniques characteristic of a particular discipline or field of knowledge
This field course gives an overview of archaeological method.
Function
(Biology) The physiological activity of an organ or body part
The heart's function is to pump blood.
Method
Method A technique of acting in which the actor recalls emotions and reactions from past experience and uses them in identifying with and individualizing the character being portrayed.
Function
(Computers) A procedure within an application.
Method
A process by which a task is completed; a way of doing something (followed by the adposition of, to or for before the purpose of the process).
If one method doesn't work, you should ask a friend to help you.
Function
An official ceremony or a formal social occasion
Disliked attending receptions and other company functions.
Method
A technique for acting based on the ideas articulated by Konstantin Stanislavski and focusing on authentically experiencing the inner life of the character being portrayed.
Function
Something closely related to another thing and dependent on it for its existence, value, or significance
Growth is a function of nutrition.
Method
(object-oriented) A subroutine or function belonging to a class or object.
Function
A variable so related to another that for each value assumed by one there is a value determined for the other.
Method
(slang) Marijuana.
Function
A rule of correspondence between two sets such that there is exactly one element in the second set assigned to each element in the first set. Also called mapping.
Method
(dated) An instruction book systematically arranged.
Function
To have or perform a function; serve
Functioned as ambassador.
Method
Ellipsis of method air.
Function
To deal with or overcome the challenges of everyday life
For weeks after his friend's funeral he simply could not function.
Method
(transitive) To apply a method to.
Function
What something does or is used for.
Method
To apply particular treatment methods to (a mold).
The company employs extensive use of 3D modelling combined with solidification simulation to ensure that critical castings are properly methoded.
Function
A professional or official position.
Method
An orderly procedure or process; regular manner of doing anything; hence, manner; way; mode; as, a method of teaching languages; a method of improving the mind.
Function
An official or social occasion.
Method
Orderly arrangement, elucidation, development, or classification; clear and lucid exhibition; systematic arrangement peculiar to an individual.
Though this be madness, yet there's method in it.
All method is a rational progress, a progress toward an end.
Function
Something which is dependent on or stems from another thing; a result or concomitant.
Method
Classification; a mode or system of classifying natural objects according to certain common characteristics; as, the method of Theophrastus; the method of Ray; the Linnæan method.
Function
A relation where one thing is dependent on another for its existence, value, or significance.
Method
A technique used in acting in which the actor tries to identify with the individual personality of the specific character being portrayed, so as to provide a realistic rendering of the character's role. Also called the Method, method acting, the Stanislavsky Method or Stanislavsky System.
Function
(mathematics) A relation in which each element of the domain is associated with exactly one element of the codomain. Category:en:Functions
Method
A way of doing something, especially a systematic way; implies an orderly logical arrangement (usually in steps)
Function
(computing) A routine that receives zero or more arguments and may return a result.
Function
(biology) The physiological activity of an organ or body part.
Function
(chemistry) The characteristic behavior of a chemical compound.
Function
(anthropology) The role of a social practice in the continued existence of the group.
Function
(intransitive) To have a function.
Function
(intransitive) To carry out a function; to be in action.
Function
The act of executing or performing any duty, office, or calling; performance.
Function
The appropriate action of any special organ or part of an animal or vegetable organism; as, the function of the heart or the limbs; the function of leaves, sap, roots, etc.; life is the sum of the functions of the various organs and parts of the body.
Function
The natural or assigned action of any power or faculty, as of the soul, or of the intellect; the exertion of an energy of some determinate kind.
As the mind opens, and its functions spread.
Function
The course of action which peculiarly pertains to any public officer in church or state; the activity appropriate to any business or profession.
Tradesmen . . . going about their functions.
The malady which made him incapable of performing hisregal functions.
Function
A quantity so connected with another quantity, that if any alteration be made in the latter there will be a consequent alteration in the former. Each quantity is said to be a function of the other. Thus, the circumference of a circle is a function of the diameter. If x be a symbol to which different numerical values can be assigned, such expressions as x2, 3x, Log. x, and Sin. x, are all functions of x.
Function
A religious ceremony, esp. one particularly impressive and elaborate.
Every solemn function' performed with the requirements of the liturgy.
Function
A public or social ceremony or gathering; a festivity or entertainment, esp. one somewhat formal.
This function, which is our chief social event.
Function
To execute or perform a function; to transact one's regular or appointed business.
Function
A mathematical relation such that each element of one set is associated with at least one element of another set
Function
What something is used for;
The function of an auger is to bore holes
Ballet is beautiful but what use is it?
Function
The actions and activities assigned to or required or expected of a person or group;
The function of a teacher
The government must do its part
Play its role
Function
A relation such that one thing is dependent on another;
Height is a function of age
Price is a function of supply and demand
Function
A formal or official social gathering or ceremony;
It was a black-tie function
Function
A vaguely specified social event;
The party was quite an affair
An occasion arranged to honor the president
A seemingly endless round of social functions
Function
A set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program
Function
Perform as expected when applied;
The washing machine won't go unless it's plugged in
Does this old car still run well?
This old radio doesn't work anymore
Function
Serve a purpose, role, or function;
The tree stump serves as a table
The female students served as a control group
This table would serve very well
His freedom served him well
The table functions as a desk
Function
Perform duties attached to a particular office or place or function;
His wife officiated as his private secretary
Function
Function can exist independently in a program.
The sqrt() function calculates the square root of a number.
Function
Function can be global or local.
The local function was defined inside another function.
Function
Function can be called by its name.
We called the sort() function to arrange the elements.
Common Curiosities
Is a Method independent?
No, a method is bound to a specific object or class.
Can a Function exist independently?
Yes, a function can exist independently of any object or class.
How is a Function invoked?
A function is called by its name, followed by parentheses that may contain arguments.
What is a Method?
A method is a function that is associated with an object and often manipulates the object's state.
What is a Function?
A function is a reusable block of code that performs a specific task.
How is a Method invoked?
A method is called using the object it's associated with, often using the dot operator.
Does a Method have an object context?
Yes, methods are invoked within the context of an object.
Where is a Method typically defined?
A method is typically defined within a class.
Can a Method return a value?
Yes, like functions, methods can also return values.
Are all Methods Functions?
Yes, all methods are functions, but not all functions are methods.
Does a Function have an object context?
No, functions do not have an object context unless passed explicitly.
Can a Function be local or global?
Yes, functions can be defined either globally or locally within other functions.
Can a Method change an object's state?
Yes, methods often change the state of the object they are associated with.
Can a Function change an object's state?
Functions typically don't change an object's state unless an object is explicitly passed to them.
Can a Function return a value?
A function may or may not return a value, depending on its definition.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
