Is Python Object-Oriented? Exploring Object-Oriented Programming in Python
By Mayank Sahu
Updated on May 24, 2025 | 24 min read | 13.73K+ views
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By Mayank Sahu
Updated on May 24, 2025 | 24 min read | 13.73K+ views
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Did you know? Python started as a hobby project by Guido van Rossum in 1989!
By 1991, its first release already had powerful features like classes, inheritance, and exception handling, setting the stage for Python’s strong object-oriented programming capabilities.
Latest Update: Python is the world’s most popular programming language in 2025, according to a report by TIOBE.
Object-oriented programming languages group data and functions into objects, making code easier to organize and reuse. Understanding is Python object oriented helps you see how it brings these benefits to your projects. But if you’re new to object-oriented programming in python, it can be confusing to know where to start or how these concepts actually work in real code.
This article explains Python’s OOP features clearly, so you can write cleaner, more modular, and reusable code that fits your needs.
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Key OOP concepts in Python exist to help you organize complex programs by breaking them into manageable pieces. Imagine building a game: you’d need different characters, each with unique behaviors but some shared traits. Concepts like inheritance and polymorphism let you create a general character blueprint, then build specific characters without rewriting code.
This keeps your program organized, easier to update, and reduces errors.
The key OOP concepts in Python go beyond definitions; they provide a framework to organize and manage your code effectively. They help you build clear, reusable components that work together smoothly in your programs. Here are three programs that can help you:
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Object-oriented programming languages organize code by grouping data and the functions that work on that data into reusable objects. Knowing what is object oriented language helps you understand why this approach makes complex programs easier to build and maintain.
So, is Python object oriented language? Yes, it uses simple yet powerful tools to bring OOP to life:
These are blueprints that define the structure and behavior of objects. A class is like a recipe that tells Python what attributes and methods an object should have.
Let’s break down the structure of a Python class to see how it works in action:
Here’s a simple example:
class Animal:
def __init__(self, name, species):
self.name = name
self.species = species
def info(self):
return f"{self.name} is a {self.species}."
In this example, Animal is a class with two attributes—name and species. The __init__ method is a special constructor that sets these attributes when you create a new Animal object.
Next, we create an object:
dog = Animal("Buddy", "Dog")
print(dog.info()) # Output: Buddy is a Dog.
Here, dog is an instance of the Animal class, with its own name ("Buddy") and species ("Dog"). When you call dog.info(), it accesses those attributes and returns a clear, formatted string describing the animal.
These are instances created from classes. Each object holds its own data and can perform actions defined by its class.
Let’s dive into what makes objects so powerful in Python:
Here’s a simple example to show this in action:
class Car:
def __init__(self, make, model):
self.make = make
self.model = model
def start(self):
return f"{self.make} {self.model} is starting."
This Car class has two attributes—make and model—which get set when you create a new car object. The start method describes what happens when the car starts.
Now, let’s create two different car objects:
car1 = Car("Toyota", "Corolla")
car2 = Car("Tesla", "Model 3")
print(car1.start()) # Output: Toyota Corolla is starting.
print(car2.start()) # Output: Tesla Model 3 is starting.
Each car has its own details, and calling start() on each object returns a message specific to that car.
These building blocks, Python classes and objects, are essential to understanding is Python object oriented and how object-oriented programming in Python works in practice.
As your programs grow, managing lots of code can become overwhelming and error-prone. That’s where core OOP concepts like encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism come in, they exist to keep your code organized, reusable, and easier to maintain.
Let’s see what encapsulation is in OOP in Python.
Encapsulation is a core idea in object oriented programming languages that helps keep your data safe and your code organized. In object-oriented programming in Python, encapsulation means restricting direct access to an object’s data so sensitive information stays protected.
Python classes and objects use a simple way to do this, by marking attributes and methods as private with a single or double underscore.
If you’ve wondered is Python object oriented and how it handles data security, understanding encapsulation is key to writing clean, reliable code.
Let’s start with getter and setter methods, a powerful way to implement encapsulation in Python. These methods allow you to control how the data in your objects is accessed or modified, giving you more control over your program.
Instead of directly changing an object’s private attributes, you use getter methods to fetch the data and setter methods to update it. This ensures your object’s data remains secure and its integrity is maintained.
Here’s an example to show you how it works in practice:
class BankAccount:
def __init__(self, account_holder, balance):
self.__account_holder = account_holder # Private attribute
self.__balance = balance
def get_balance(self):
return self.__balance
def deposit(self, amount):
if amount > 0:
self.__balance += amount
return f"Deposited ${amount}. New balance: ${self.__balance}"
return "Invalid deposit amount."
# Creating an object
account = BankAccount("Aliah", 1000)
print(account.get_balance()) # Output: 1000
print(account.deposit(500)) # Output: Deposited $500. New balance: $1500
Output:
1000
Deposited $500. New balance: $1500
Explanation:
Also Read: What are the Advantages of Object-Oriented Programming?
You’ll now find out about inheritance in object oriented programming languages.
Inheritance is one of the most powerful features in object oriented programming languages. It allows you to create new classes that acquire the properties and methods of existing classes, making your code more modular and reusable.
If you’ve ever asked is Python object oriented, the answer is yes, inheritance is one of the key concepts that make Python’s OOP system both flexible and efficient.
In object-oriented programming in Python, inheritance helps you avoid rewriting code by enabling new classes (child classes) to inherit the behavior and attributes of existing classes (parent classes). This keeps your code cleaner, more organized, and easier to maintain.
Let’s break down the different types of inheritance in Python:
Multiple Inheritance: A class can inherit from more than one parent class, combining features from multiple classes into a single child class. This is powerful but should be used with care, as it can lead to complexity.
Example of Single Inheritance:
class Parent:
def greet(self):
return "Hello from the Parent!"
class Child(Parent):
def greet(self):
return "Hello from the Child!"
child = Child()
print(child.greet()) # Output: Hello from the Child!
Output:
Hello from the Child!
Explanation:
Example of Multiple Inheritance:
class Mother:
def skill(self):
return "Cooking"
class Father:
def skill(self):
return "Driving"
class Child(Mother, Father):
pass
child = Child()
print(child.skill()) # Output: Cooking (resolves to the first parent class)
Output:
Cooking
Explanation:
Also Read: Polymorphism vs Inheritance in Java: Key Differences [2025]
Now, you’ll dig deeper into the essential concept of polymorphism in Python OOP.
In simple terms, polymorphism means "many forms." It allows objects of different classes to use the same method, but each object can respond to that method in its own unique way.
There are two main ways Python achieves polymorphism: method overriding and operator overloading.
Operator Overloading: Python also allows you to redefine how operators (like +, -, *) behave for objects of your class. This enables objects of your class to interact with standard operators in a customized way.
Example of Method Overriding:
class Animal:
def speak(self):
return "Animal speaks."
class Dog(Animal):
def speak(self):
return "Woof!"
animal = Animal()
dog = Dog()
print(animal.speak()) # Output: Animal speaks.
print(dog.speak()) # Output: Woof!
Output:
Animal speaks.
Woof!
Explanation:
Abstraction helps manage complexity by showing only the essential features of an object. It hides the internal details that don’t need to be exposed to the user, making your code more readable and easier to maintain.
For example, when you drive a car, you don’t need to know how the engine works, just how to use the steering wheel, pedals, and gears. In object oriented programming languages, abstraction lets you design objects in the same way.
Example of Abstraction:
from abc import ABC, abstractmethod
class Shape(ABC):
@abstractmethod
def area(self):
pass
class Rectangle(Shape):
def __init__(self, width, height):
self.width = width
self.height = height
def area(self):
return self.width * self.height
# Using the abstract class
rect = Rectangle(10, 5)
print(rect.area()) # Output: 50
Output:
50
Explanation:
Python’s OOP capabilities empower developers to create well-structured, reusable, and scalable code. By understanding and applying these principles, you can harness the full potential of Python in developing complex applications.
Dealing with complex coding structures can be overwhelming without the right foundation. Explore upGrad’s free Java Object-oriented Programming course to sharpen your skills and streamline your coding process. Start now!
Also Read: Abstraction vs Encapsulation: Difference Between Abstraction and Encapsulation
Now, let’s find out how to implement OOP principles in Python the proper way.
Python classes can have different types of methods:
Example:
class Example:
class_var = "Class Level Attribute"
def __init__(self, instance_var):
self.instance_var = instance_var
def instance_method(self):
return f"Instance Method: {self.instance_var}"
@classmethod
def class_method(cls):
return f"Class Method: {cls.class_var}"
@staticmethod
def static_method():
return "Static Method: Independent of class or instance."
obj = Example("Instance Level Attribute")
print(obj.instance_method()) # Output: Instance Method: Instance Level Attribute
print(Example.class_method()) # Output: Class Method: Class Level Attribute
print(Example.static_method()) # Output: Static Method: Independent of class or instance.
Output:
Instance Method: Instance Level Attribute
Class Method: Class Level Attribute
Static Method: Independent of class or instance.
Explanation:
Next, you’ll develop an understanding of the self parameter.
The self parameter refers to the instance of the class and is used to access its attributes and methods. It must be explicitly included in all instance method definitions.
Example:
class Car:
def __init__(self, make, model):
self.make = make
self.model = model
def details(self):
return f"Car: {self.make} {self.model}"
car = Car("Tesla", "Model S")
print(car.details()) # Output: Car: Tesla Model S
Output:
Car: Tesla Model S
Explanation:
Also Read: Python Tutorial: Learn Python from Scratch
Let’s now see how you can use constructors and destructors for implementing OOP in Python.
The __init__ method is a constructor that initializes an object’s attributes when it is created. The __del__ method is a destructor that cleans up resources when an object is deleted or goes out of scope.
Example:
class Resource:
def __init__(self, name):
self.name = name
print(f"Resource {self.name} created.")
def __del__(self):
print(f"Resource {self.name} destroyed.")
# Creating and deleting an object
resource = Resource("File")
del resource # Output: Resource File destroyed.
Output:
Resource File created.
Resource File destroyed.
Explanation:
After covering the foundational concepts of object oriented programming languages in Python, apply these skills in your projects and continue refining your understanding.
By learning how Python's OOP approach differs from or aligns with languages like Java or C++, you'll deepen your understanding of what is object oriented language and is python object oriented language strengthen your coding expertise.
Next, let’s look into a detailed comparison to see how Python’s OOP stands out and where it fits among other popular languages.
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OOP is used in different languages to simplify managing complex code through reusable structures. Understanding how object-oriented programming in Python compares to languages like Java or C++ helps you avoid confusion when switching between them.
The table highlights the key differences in Python classes and objects, clarifying what is object oriented language and is Python object oriented language.
Feature |
Python |
Java |
C++ |
Memory Management | Automatic garbage collection. No manual memory handling needed. | Automatic garbage collection. No manual memory management. | Manual memory management using new and delete. |
Multiple Inheritance | Supports multiple inheritance directly. | Does not support multiple inheritance. Uses interfaces instead. | Supports multiple inheritance directly. |
Constructor/Destructor | Constructor is __init__(). Destructor handled by garbage collection. | Constructor has the same name as the class. Destructor is finalize(). | Constructor has the same name. Destructor is ~ClassName(). |
Polymorphism | Supports method overriding and operator overloading. | Supports method overriding and overloading (methods/operators). | Supports method overriding and operator overloading. |
Inheritance Type | Supports single, multilevel, and multiple inheritance. | Supports single and multilevel inheritance, no multiple inheritance. | Supports single, multilevel, and multiple inheritance. |
Type Checking | Dynamically typed—variables don’t require explicit type declarations. | Statically typed—all variables must have defined types. | Statically typed—explicit type declarations required. |
After reviewing the differences, focus on how Python’s simplicity and flexibility in OOP can help speed up development, especially for projects that require quick iteration and ease of use. If you’re transitioning from Java or C++, leverage Python’s dynamic typing and multiple inheritance capabilities to write more concise, readable code.
For more control over memory or stricter typing, consider using Java or C++ for large-scale systems or performance-critical applications.
If you're still building your Python skills, now is the perfect time to strengthen that foundation. Check out the Programming with Python: Introduction for Beginners free course by upGrad to build the foundation you need before getting into programming.
Object-oriented programming (OOP) in Python offers numerous benefits, making it a preferred choice for building scalable and maintainable software. However, like any programming paradigm, it also comes with limitations that developers must consider based on project requirements.
First, you’ll learn about the main advantages of OOP in Python.
Advantage |
Limitation |
Workaround |
OOP in Python promotes code reuse, reducing duplication and speeding up development with inheritance. | Multiple inheritance can create complexity and ambiguity in method resolution. | Use method resolution order (MRO) carefully or prefer composition over inheritance. |
Python supports encapsulation, allowing sensitive data to be protected through private attributes. | Encapsulation can make debugging harder by hiding object internals. | Use getter/setter methods or properties to provide controlled access to data. |
OOP helps in scaling applications without affecting existing code due to its modular structure. | Large-scale OOP implementations can lead to performance overhead, especially with many objects. | Optimize with lazy loading or reduce object creation by using object pooling techniques. |
Python’s dynamic typing allows for quick prototyping and flexible code within OOP. | Dynamic typing can lead to runtime errors, especially in large OOP projects. | Use type hinting and abstract base classes (ABC) to enforce structure. |
OOP allows real-world problems to be mapped directly into code, simplifying complex systems. | Small projects can become overly complex with OOP, leading to unnecessary abstraction. | For small tasks, prefer procedural programming or simpler structures to avoid overhead. |
Python allows polymorphism with method overriding and operator overloading, making code adaptable. | Method overloading isn't directly supported, requiring workarounds for multiple behaviors. | Use default parameters in methods or leverage method overriding for similar functiona |
While object-oriented programming in Python offers immense benefits like modularity, code reuse, and scalability, it’s important to keep potential limitations in mind. To avoid complexity in large-scale applications, be mindful of multiple inheritance and focus on method resolution order (MRO) or use composition where appropriate.
For smaller projects, consider simplifying your design and using procedural programming or more advanced techniques to avoid unnecessary overhead.
Advanced object-oriented programming (OOP) techniques in Python enable developers to tackle complex programming challenges. These concepts extend the flexibility and power of Python's OOP, making it ideal for real-world applications.
Let's first see how to use magic methods in Python OOP.
Magic methods, also known as dunder methods (double underscore), allow customization of object behavior. They enable operator overloading, where operators perform specific tasks based on the object type.
Common Magic Methods:
Example of Operator Overloading:
class Vector:
def __init__(self, x, y):
self.x = x
self.y = y
def __add__(self, other):
return Vector(self.x + other.x, self.y + other.y)
def __str__(self):
return f"Vector({self.x}, {self.y})"
v1 = Vector(2, 3)
v2 = Vector(4, 5)
v3 = v1 + v2 # Uses __add__
print(v3) # Output: Vector(6, 8)
Output:
Vector(6, 8)
Explanation:
Next, you’ll see how to work with abstract classes and interfaces for Python OOP.
Abstract classes and interfaces provide templates for designing reusable and consistent APIs. They are implemented using the abc module in Python.
Features:
Example using the abc Module:
from abc import ABC, abstractmethod
class Shape(ABC):
@abstractmethod
def area(self):
pass
@abstractmethod
def perimeter(self):
pass
class Rectangle(Shape):
def __init__(self, width, height):
self.width = width
self.height = height
def area(self):
return self.width * self.height
def perimeter(self):
return 2 * (self.width + self.height)
rect = Rectangle(4, 5)
print(rect.area()) # Output: 20
print(rect.perimeter()) # Output: 18
Output:
20
18
Explanation:
Finally, let’s explore what metaclasses are and how they work.
Metaclasses are advanced constructs in Python that control how classes are created. They allow customization of class definitions and behaviors, enabling dynamic modification of classes at runtime.
Key Uses:
Example of Metaclasses:
class Meta(type):
def __new__(cls, name, bases, dct):
dct['greet'] = lambda self: f"Hello from {self.__class__.__name__}!"
return super().__new__(cls, name, bases, dct)
class MyClass(metaclass=Meta):
pass
obj = MyClass()
print(obj.greet()) # Output: Hello from MyClass!
Output:
Hello from MyClass!
Explanation:
By mastering these advanced techniques, developers can unlock the full potential of Python's OOP, creating efficient, scalable, and maintainable software solutions for complex use cases.
Now, you'll learn about some common misconceptions about Python and OOP.
Python's object-oriented programming (OOP) features are often misunderstood, leading to misconceptions about its capabilities and flexibility. This section clarifies popular myths and demonstrates Python's robustness in handling OOP and other paradigms.
Truth: While Python is not a "pure" object-oriented language like Smalltalk, it is fully capable of OOP. Everything in Python, including functions, modules, and numbers, is treated as an object.
Example:
# Even numbers are objects in Python
num = 42
print(type(num)) # Output: <class 'int'>
# Functions as objects
def greet():
return "Hello, World!"
print(type(greet)) # Output: <class 'function'>
Output:
<class 'int'>
<class 'function'>
Explanation:
Python blends object-oriented, procedural, and functional paradigms, providing versatility without compromising its OOP features.
Truth: Python is inherently multi-paradigm, supporting procedural, functional, and object-oriented styles seamlessly. Developers can mix paradigms to suit their project requirements, enabling flexibility and efficiency.
Example:
# Procedural style
def add(x, y):
return x + y
# Object-oriented style
class Calculator:
def add(self, x, y):
return x + y
# Functional style
add_lambda = lambda x, y: x + y
# Using all paradigms together
print(add(2, 3)) # Procedural: Output 5
calc = Calculator()
print(calc.add(2, 3)) # OOP: Output 5
print(add_lambda(2, 3)) # Functional: Output 5
Output:
5
5
5
Explanation:
Python's ability to integrate paradigms allows developers to leverage the strengths of each approach.
Misconception | Reality | Example |
Python is not fully object-oriented. | Python treats everything as an object, making it fully capable of OOP. | type(42) -> <class 'int'> |
You cannot mix paradigms effectively. | Python seamlessly supports procedural, functional, and object-oriented paradigms, offering great flexibility. | Combining functions, classes, and lambda expressions in the same program. |
Python is only for beginners. | Python scales to handle complex applications and is widely used in AI, web development, and data science. | Django for web, TensorFlow for AI, and pandas for data analysis. |
To continue advancing your skills, consider exploring topics like design patterns in Python, functional programming techniques, and testing OOP code. Additionally, working on projects such as building a Python-based API, developing a task manager with OOP, or creating a game engine can help reinforce your understanding and provide hands-on experience.
This blog provides a comprehensive overview of object-oriented programming in Python, covering core concepts like encapsulation, inheritance, polymorphism, and abstraction. It also explores more advanced techniques such as method overriding and metaclasses, giving you a deeper understanding of Python OOP.
While these concepts are powerful for building scalable applications, many developers struggle to apply them effectively, especially when transitioning from procedural programming or handling complex projects.
upGrad’s courses offer hands-on experience with OOP, guiding you through practical examples and advanced techniques so you can apply these concepts confidently and efficiently in your real-life projects.
In addition to the courses mentioned, here are some more resources to help you further elevate your skills:
Not sure where to go next in your Python journey? upGrad’s personalized career guidance can help you explore the right learning path based on your goals. You can also visit your nearest upGrad center and start hands-on training today!
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Reference:
https://www.statista.com/statistics/793628/worldwide-developer-survey-most-used-languages/
https://www.tiobe.com/tiobe-index/
https://chem.libretexts.org/Courses/University_of_Arkansas_Little_Rock/IOST_Library/05:_Python_Book/01:_Introduction/01:_History_of_Python
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Mayank Sahu is the Program Marketing Manager with upGrad for all emerging technology vertical. His past experience is in analytics industry extensively in healthcare Domain. Mayank has completed his G...
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