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How to test multiple variables for equality against a single value?

python
list-comprehensions
map-function
set-data-structure
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Nov 24, 2024
TLDR

Check multiple variables for one value succinctly using Python's powerful all function:

are_all_equal = all(var == 'target' for var in (var1, var2, var3))

This are_all_equal will return True if var1, var2, and var3 all match 'target'.

Finding any match?

In case, just one match would be enough in your case (Ratatouille anyone?), use Python's sister function any:

is_any_equal = any(var == 'target' for var in (var1, var2, var3))

Prepare the victory dance, is_any_equal will shine True if any of var1, var2, var3 turns out to be the 'target'.

For greater foes, employ sets

Bigger the number of variables, harder it is to make sense. So, when many variables or values are involved:

values = {1, 2, 3} is_value_in_set = var1 in values

Fun fact: Your CPU thanks you, as membership tests with sets are O(1) operations, making them more efficient than finding Waldo in a crowd.

Lazy, are we? List comprehensions and map it is!

Another day of looping around meticulously? Why not use Pythonic list comprehensions:

matches = [var for var in (var1, var2, var3) if var == 'target'] # Welcome to One line-Land!

Why stop there? Let's pair map and lambda for concise checks. Even Yoda approves:

is_any_equal = any(map(lambda x: x == 'target', (var1, var2, var3))) # Wise you are, young Padawan!

Avoiding 'or' epidemic

Steer clear from or infestation:

are_all_equal = var1 == var2 == var3 == 'target'

Extra features with dictionaries

Map variables to outcomes for added flavor:

outcome = {var1: 'first', var2: 'second', var3: 'third'}

Never sweat over missing values. Retrieve based on a match:

result = outcome.get('target', 'default') # Fallback plans are cool!

Running from unnecessary loops

Looping over and over? No need to over-exert:

for var in (var1, var2, var3): if var == 'target': do_something() break # Hey look, a way out!

Framing your choice: Sets vs Dictionaries

Remember your Shakespeare: To Set or to Dict:

  • Stick with sets when you need to verify a value's presence.
  • Use dictionaries if you love a side of extra info with a match.