from import

Learn selective imports with from x import y.

from import

from ... import takes only a specific item from a module. That item can now be used without the module name:

from math import sqrt
print(sqrt(16))  # 4.0

Here only sqrt is taken; there is no need to write math.sqrt. But since the math name is not loaded, math.pi is not available.

This is handy for calling a few frequently used items by short names.

Advantage and risk of from import

from math import sqrt shortens code. But from math import * loads everything — this is dangerous because it can cause name clashes:

# risky
from math import *
# where did sqrt come from? log?

Star imports hide which name comes from which module. They should be avoided in large projects. Instead, importing only the needed items by name is safer.

Good style: from math import sqrt, pi.

Exercise from math import sqrt and pi

Write from math import sqrt, pi. Then write print(sqrt(16), pi).

Show example solution

from math import sqrt, pi
print(sqrt(16), pi)

Test yourself

Complete the from import pattern

from math ____ sqrt
print(sqrt(16))

Show answer

from math import sqrt
print(sqrt(16))

Match from import

from math import sqrt

Takes one item
sqrt(16)

Direct call
import *

Dangerous
from math import pi, sqrt

Multiple items
After from math import sqrt, what does math.sqrt(16) do?
- Raises NameError
- Works
- Raises TypeError
- Raises ImportError
Show answer

Raises NameError — from math import sqrt takes only sqrt; the name math is not loaded.

Next lesson: as alias

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