0422-python import

Sure — here’s a concise and clear summary of how Python handles from xxx import abc:


🧵 Summary: What Happens When You from xxx import abc

Step
What Python Does
Why

✅ 1. Locate the module

Finds xxx.py or xxx/__init__.py

Standard import mechanism

✅ 2. Read the entire file

Reads all source code in xxx

Needed to compile the module

✅ 3. Compile the code

Translates entire file to bytecode

Python compiles modules before execution

✅ 4. Execute the entire module

Runs all top-level code (function defs, imports, prints, etc.)

To define abc and other objects

✅ 5. Build the module’s namespace

Stores all defined names in xxx.__dict__

This is the module’s own scope

✅ 6. Copy only abc into your scope

Puts abc into your current namespace

That’s what from ... import abc means


🧠 Key Principles

  • Modules are fully executed on import, even if you only import one symbol.

  • Python favors explicitness and namespace isolation.

  • Function definitions are only known after the file is executed.

  • Your local scope only receives what you explicitly ask for.


Let me know if you'd like a diagram or live code demonstration to see this step-by-step!

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