nested scope

In Python, a nested scope refers to the ability of an inner function to access variables from its containing or enclosing function. This concept is part of the broader scope in Python, which includes local, enclosing, global, and built-in scopes.

When you define a function inside another function, the inner function can see and use the variables defined in the outer function. This is possible because Python retains access to the outer scope for the inner function, even after the outer function has finished executing.

Nested scopes are useful when you need to encapsulate functionality and create closures.

Example

Here’s an example of nested scopes in Python:

Python 
>>> def outer_function(message):
...     def inner_function():
...         print(message)
...     return inner_function
...

>>> function = outer_function("Hello, Real Python!")
>>> function()
Hello, Real Python!

In this example, inner_function() is defined inside outer_function(). It accesses the message variable, which is in the enclosing scope defined by outer_function(). When you call function(), it prints "Hello, Real Python!" because it retains access to the message variable from the outer_function() scope.

Python Scope & the LEGB Rule: Resolving Names in Your Code

Tutorial

Python Scope & the LEGB Rule: Resolving Names in Your Code

In this step-by-step tutorial, you'll learn what scopes are, how they work, and how to use them effectively to avoid name collisions in your code. Additionally, you'll learn how to take advantage of a Python scope to write more maintainable and less buggy code.

intermediate python

For additional information on related topics, take a look at the following resources:

By Leodanis Pozo Ramos • Updated April 24, 2025 • Reviewed by Dan Bader
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