[Tutor] Is input a Python function or command?

[Alan G]

> Is input a Python function or command? 

Its a function. You can tell because you need to use parens.
print, by contrast, is a command and doesn't need parens...

> I need to know because I'm planning to use it as 
> a variable, and don't want to get an error.

Even if you don't want to use input() in your code masking 
it with a variable name is still a bad idea. Why? Because 
anyone else reading your code who sees 'input' will 
automatically tend to assume the builtin name not your 
variable. Its much better to use safe variable names.

A Thesaurus can help here, for example the online one at:

http://thesaurus.reference.com

Which suggests these as alternatives to input:

abstracts, brass tacks, circumstances, compilations, conclusions, 
details, documents, dope, dossier, evidence, experiments, 
facts, figures, goods, info, input, knowledge, materials, 
measurements, memorandums, notes, picture, poop, poop sheet, 
proof, reports, results, scoop, score, statistics, testimony, 
whole story 

Also some abbreviation skills can be used, for example:

iput, ipt, in.

Finally augmenting the name with some context information will help,
such as file_input, numeric_input, menu_input etc...

Personally I prefer the first and last techniques, abbreviations 
can become obscure very quickly.

HTH,

Alan G.