Which is the Pythonic way to concatenate lists: ` =` or `extend()`?

Concatenating Lists: Dissecting the ' = and extend()` Methods

In Python, the two primary methods for concatenating lists— = and extend()—have sparked discussions regarding their nuances. While the official Python tutorial remains silent on this distinction, we'll delve into the differences and provide insights into the Pythonic way of list concatenation.

Function Calls vs. In-place Operations

At the bytecode level, the most noticeable difference lies in the way the two methods operate. extend() involves a function call, whereas = uses an in-place addition. This minor distinction can result in a marginally higher overhead in Python for the function call.

However, this slight performance difference is unlikely to be noticeable in most practical applications. Unless you're performing this operation an exorbitant number of times (billions), it's unlikely to impact the overall efficiency of your code.

The Pythonic Approach

As for the Pythonic way of list concatenation, both methods are equally acceptable. The choice ultimately depends on the specific context and the programmer's preferences. While extend() is a more explicit and descriptive method, = is a more concise and convenient option.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between extend() and = for list concatenation is a matter of personal preference. Both methods are valid and efficient, and their subtle differences in implementation are unlikely to affect the practicality of your code.

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