Python Library Reference

Previous: 6.24.2 For extension writers Up: 6. Generic Operating System Next: 6.25.1 GNU gettext API

---

6.25 gettext -- Multilingual internationalization services

The gettext module provides internationalization (I18N) and localization (L10N) services for your Python modules and applications. It supports both the GNU gettext message catalog API and a higher level, class-based API that may be more appropriate for Python files. The interface described below allows you to write your module and application messages in one natural language, and provide a catalog of translated messages for running under different natural languages.

Some hints on localizing your Python modules and applications are also given.

• 6.25.1 GNU gettext API
• 6.25.2 Class-based API
  • 6.25.2.1 The NullTranslations class
  • 6.25.2.2 The GNUTranslations class
  • 6.25.2.3 Solaris message catalog support
  • 6.25.2.4 The Catalog constructor
• 6.25.3 Internationalizing your programs and modules
  • 6.25.3.1 Localizing your module
  • 6.25.3.2 Localizing your application
  • 6.25.3.3 Changing languages on the fly
  • 6.25.3.4 Deferred translations
• 6.25.4 Acknowledgements

---

Python Library Reference

Previous: 6.24.2 For extension writers Up: 6. Generic Operating System Next: 6.25.1 GNU gettext API

---

Release 2.2.1, documentation updated on April 10, 2002.