python / python/typing

Parametrised Callable allowed only when used as type alias

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topic: documentation
Dominant language
Python
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Description

I've found a case where a Callable is not allowed when used directly, but is allowed if used as an alias

from typing import TypeVar, Callable

T = TypeVar('T')

MkFoo = Callable[[T], list[T]]

def foo(mkfoo: MkFoo) -> None:
    _ = mkfoo(0)

works, but replacing MkFoo by its definition

def foo(mkfoo: Callable[[T], list[T]]) -> None:
    _ = mkfoo(0)

produces

main.py:13: error: Argument 1 has incompatible type "int"; expected "T"

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First steps

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Research direction

Start with the two reproductions shown in main.py, comparing the parametrised Callable used directly with the equivalent type alias. Check the resulting type-checker behavior and existing discussion; done means determining whether both forms should be accepted and adding or updating coverage for the agreed behavior.

Written by the indexing model from the issue text.

Assessment

Tech stack
python
Domain
devtools
Issue type
Bug
Difficulty
4/5
Estimated time
3-5 days
Activity status
Stale
Clarity
Mostly clear
Newbie friendliness
38/100

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