How to execute Python multi-line statements in the one-line at command-line?

There are multiple ways to execute Python multi-line statements in a single command-line call. You can use bash's multi-line support or compress statements using newline characters.

Using Bash Multi-line Support

Bash supports multi-line statements, which you can use with the python -c command ?

$ python -c '
> a = True
> if a:
>     print("a is true")
> '

The output of the above command is ?

a is true

Using Newline Characters in Single Line

If you prefer to have the Python statement in a single line, you can use the \n newline character between commands ?

$ python -c $'a = True\nif a: print("a is true")'

The output of the above command is ?

a is true

Using Semicolons for Simple Statements

For simple statements that don't require proper indentation, you can use semicolons to separate commands ?

$ python -c "x = 10; y = 20; print(f'Sum is {x + y}')"

The output of the above command is ?

Sum is 30

Complex Example with Functions

You can also define and call functions using newline characters ?

$ python -c $'def greet(name):\n    return f"Hello, {name}"\nprint(greet("World"))'

The output of the above command is ?

Hello, World

Conclusion

Use bash multi-line support for readable code or \n characters for compact one-liners. Choose the method that best fits your command-line workflow and code complexity.