Python 3.12 introduces "t-strings," a new string literal type designed for templating. Prepending a string with t (e.g., t"Hello {name}") signifies a t-string, which supports delayed interpolation and formatting. Unlike f-strings, t-strings don't immediately evaluate expressions within braces. Instead, they create a reusable template that can be formatted later using the .format() method. This allows for constructing templates separately from their data, improving code organization and enabling scenarios like dynamic template creation or translation. T-strings also offer enhanced control over formatting via format specifiers within the braces, similar to existing str.format() functionality. While sharing some similarities with f-strings, t-strings prioritize reusability and deferred evaluation, providing a powerful alternative for template-based string construction.
PEP 486 introduces a mechanism for the Python launcher for Windows (py.exe) to automatically detect and use virtual environments. It proposes a new file, .venv, in a directory, signaling to the launcher that it's a virtual environment. When invoked from within such a directory, py.exe will prioritize the associated environment's interpreter over globally installed versions. This simplifies virtual environment usage by removing the need to manually activate them before running Python scripts, providing a more seamless user experience.
Hacker News users discussed the benefits and drawbacks of PEP 486, which makes the Python launcher aware of virtual environments. Several commenters appreciated the simplified workflow and reduced reliance on activating environments explicitly. Some highlighted potential confusion around environment selection, particularly with identically named environments in different locations. The discussion also touched on the launcher's behavior on Windows versus Unix-like systems and the potential impact on existing tools and workflows that rely on the previous behavior. A few users expressed skepticism about the necessity of the PEP, suggesting alternative approaches or highlighting the adequacy of existing tools.
Summary of Comments ( 212 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43748512
Hacker News users generally expressed enthusiasm for Python's proposed t-strings (trimmed strings), viewing them as a valuable addition for template literals and multiline strings. Several commenters highlighted the potential for improved readability and maintainability, especially when dealing with SQL queries or HTML. Some discussed the syntax, suggesting alternatives and pondering potential edge cases and implementation details, like handling backslashes. A few pointed out the existing workarounds available and questioned whether this feature warranted inclusion in the core language, given the learning curve it might introduce for new users. There was also some discussion comparing t-strings to similar features in other languages, like C#'s verbatim strings and JavaScript's template literals.
The Hacker News post about Python's new t-strings (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43748512) has generated a moderate amount of discussion. Several commenters express enthusiasm for the proposed feature, viewing it as a valuable addition to Python's string formatting capabilities. They highlight the potential for improved code readability and conciseness, especially in situations involving complex formatting or multiple variables.
One commenter draws a comparison to JavaScript's template literals, noting the similarities in syntax and functionality. They appreciate the ability to embed expressions directly within the string, eliminating the need for cumbersome concatenation or separate formatting calls. Another user echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the benefits for multi-line strings and the potential reduction in boilerplate code.
A few commenters delve into more technical aspects, discussing the potential implementation details and performance implications of t-strings. One user raises questions about how the feature would interact with existing string formatting mechanisms, such as f-strings and the
format()method. They also speculate about the potential impact on parsing and compilation time.Some users express minor reservations or suggest alternative approaches. One commenter questions the necessity of introducing another string formatting option, given the existing capabilities of f-strings. They propose exploring enhancements to f-strings instead of adding a new feature. Another user suggests a different syntax for t-strings, arguing that the proposed syntax might be confusing or visually cluttered.
Overall, the comments generally reflect a positive reception to the idea of t-strings. While some minor concerns and alternative suggestions are raised, the majority of commenters express support for the feature and its potential to enhance Python's string handling capabilities. There is a clear appreciation for the improved readability and conciseness that t-strings could offer.