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How can I get dictionary key as variable directly in Python (not by searching from value)?

python
list-comprehension
pythonic-way
key-based-operations
Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Feb 10, 2025
TLDR

Easily create variables from dictionary keys using globals():

d = {'foo': 42, 'bar': 100} for k, v in d.items(): globals()[k] = v #our beloved vars taking new avatar! print(foo) # It's not foo, it's 42! print(bar) # Output: 100, not a century but a value

This way assigns the keys of d as variable names with their related values. Use this method judiciously to avoid naming collisions and maintain code readability. It's not an IPL but a Python dictionary, be careful with the selection!

How to get the key directly?

Python provides several ways to retrieve dictionary keys without having to search for their corresponding value. Let's get some examples, faster than grabbing the last slice of pizza!

Loop Iteration: Enter the Loop!

my_dict = {'alpha': 1, 'beta': 2} for key, value in my_dict.items(): # Like walking through your dictionary print("Key: %s, Value: %d" % (key, value)) # Keep it %s-simple!

Direct Access: Keys on the Go!

Get your keys faster than your morning coffee:

keys_list = list(my_dict.keys()) # Keys, assemble!

Ordered Iteration: Keys in Line!

For people who love order, sort keys for an ordered iteration:

for key in sorted(my_dict.keys()): # Sorting, it's not just for your laundry! print(key, my_dict[key])

List Comprehension: Keys Made Easy!

Embrace the Pythonic way with list comprehension:

filtered_keys = [k for k in my_dict if "a" in k] # "a" - the VIP guest

First Key: Key Opens the Door!

No more VIP pass to get the first key in Python 3.5+:

first_key = next(iter(my_dict.keys())) # First come, first served!

Pitfalls? More like Snake Pits!

Non-unique values in your dictionary? Get ready for multiple keys! Stick with key-based operations. It's a dictionary, not a shopping mall!

Version Specifics: What's in the Box?

Python 2 has iteritems(), Python 3 replaced it with items(). Changing the TV channels? No, dictionary iteration methods!

List Conversion: Power of the List!

Convert keys to a list to unlock the index-based operations. Just remember, dictionaries aren't naturally ordered. It's not your morning line at Starbucks!

Advanced Level: Key Mastery!

Manipulating keys in a loop:

Directly use keys for operations within a loop like a Pro:

for key in my_dict.keys(): # Key parade! new_key = key.upper() # Hulk smash, key smash! perform_action(new_key, my_dict[key]) # Key, do your job!

Better Output Format:

Enhance the readability of your output like you are narrating a story:

for key, value in my_dict.items(): print(f"{key}: {value}") # No need for a translator!

Checking Key Existence:

Check if a key exists in your dictionary. It's faster than your internet connection!

if 'gamma' in my_dict: print('Key found!') # Found the treasure, mate!

Precautionary Notes

Overwriting keys:

Avoid using the same keys if you don't want to overwrite them - Just like identical car keys!

Naming Conflicts:

Double-check your variable names to avoid conflicts with existing variables or keywords. No one likes a troublemaker!

Code Readability:

Readable code is like a readable book, everyone loves it. Don't lose it in the magic of creating variables on the fly.