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What is the purpose of the "this" keyword in JavaScript?

Asked on Jul 09, 2024

Answer

The "this" keyword in JavaScript refers to the context in which a function is executed, allowing access to properties and methods of the object it belongs to. It is dynamic and can change depending on how a function is called.
const person = {
            name: "Alice",
            greet: function() {
                console.log("Hello, my name is " + this.name);
            }
        };

        person.greet(); // Output: Hello, my name is Alice
Additional Comment:
  • In the example, "this" refers to the "person" object, allowing access to its "name" property.
  • The value of "this" is determined by the call-site, which is where the function is invoked.
  • In a method, "this" refers to the object the method is called on.
  • In global functions, "this" refers to the global object (window in browsers) unless in strict mode, where it is undefined.
✅ Answered with JavaScript best practices.
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