Is Python a programming language or a scripting language?

As an expert in the field of computer science and programming, I can provide a detailed explanation regarding your question. Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language. It is designed to be highly readable and allows programmers to express concepts in fewer lines of code than would be possible in languages such as C or COBOL. The term "scripting language" has historically been used to describe languages that are interpreted rather than compiled, and which are often used for automating tasks. However, this distinction has become less clear over time as the capabilities of scripting languages have expanded. Python can be used for both small scripts and large-scale applications. It has a vast standard library that supports many programming paradigms, including object-oriented, imperative, functional programming, and procedural styles. It is also extensible; users can write Python modules and packages that can be imported into other Python programs. The reference to C interpreters suggests that any language can be implemented in a way that it is either compiled or interpreted. This is true; the choice between compiling and interpreting a language is a matter of implementation, not an inherent characteristic of the language itself. In summary, Python is a programming language that is often used for scripting due to its simplicity and ease of use, but it is fully capable of being used for a wide range of programming tasks.

Also, there are C interpreters out there. If anyone cares to put in the effort, any language can be either compiled or interpreted. Python is considered a scripting language because of a historical blur between scripting languages and general purpose programming languages.