Can you identify the distinctions between these two function expressions?

Could you please clarify something for me? Below is an example of a function statement:

function foo() {}

However, the following examples are all function expressions.

var foo = function() { } // or
var foo = function foo() { } // or 
var foo = new function() { }

My question is, what distinguishes between these two forms of a function expression?

var foo = function() { } // and
var foo = new function() { }

Is the second one also considered a constructor expression? If so, which "class" does it belong to (keeping in mind that JavaScript doesn't have traditional classes but rather templates, functions, or prototypes)?

Update

To those who have shared related questions, I want to express my gratitude. Learning this language has been quite overwhelming for me as a beginner, and while I find it fascinating, it can also be confusing at times. I hope to fully grasp the intricacies of this beautiful language eventually. Please continue suggesting other relevant resources if possible.

Answer №1

Here is an example:

const bar = function() { }

This code creates a new function and assigns it to the variable bar.

On the other hand, consider this:

const bar = new function() { }

In this case, a function is instantiated, called with a new object as its context, and the resulting object is assigned to the variable bar. The function itself is not retained unless it somehow manages to return itself.

This second scenario is quite uncommon in well-written code.

Answer №2

A Function Expression is a way to define a function within an expression, usually as part of assigning it to a variable. Functions created through Function Expressions can be either named or anonymous.

Here are examples of function expressions that define a function and assign it to the variable bar:

var bar = function() { }

var bar = function bar() { }

Using the new keyword does not create a new function, but rather creates an object that is then assigned to the variable bar; the newly created function is also invoked immediately.

var bar = new function() { }

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