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Set variable in Jinja

python
jinja-templates
variable-scoping
conditional-statements
Nikita BarsukovbyNikita Barsukov·Mar 6, 2025
TLDR

In Jinja, the {% set var = 'value' %} syntax efficiently initializes and assigns a variable. For example:

{% set greeting = 'Hello, Stackoverflow!' %} # Say hi to your favorite community! {{ greeting }} # Prints: Hello, Stackoverflow!

The output for {{ greeting }} is simply "Hello, Stackoverflow!". Resist the urge to employ {{ }} for variable assignments—it exclusively displays variables!

Variable scope and you

In the Jinja universe, variables possess scope, so place them wisely. Variables allocated outside blocks or loops are like celebrities—widely recognized and accessible, whereas their counterparts inside blocks or loops might as well be in disguise—limited to local fame. For scope immortality, make use of Jinja's namespaces:

{% set ns = namespace(fame=False) %} {% for item in items %} {% if item.isCeleb %} {% set ns.fame = True %} # Our variable has just earned its Hollywood Star! {% endif %} {% endfor %} {{ ns.fame }} # Will this print True or False? Only item knows!

With this trick, ns.fame is like 'Cher'—forever famous, even outside of the loop!

Making your content shine with dynamic variables

Let's talk performance. You're the director, and {% set %} is your star. Let it cast dynamic content just like this:

{% set header_tag = 'h1' %} <{{ header_tag }}>A Star is Born...</{{ header_tag }}>

With a simple assignment maneuver, you can now change your HTML element tags on the fly—a real crowd pleaser!

Beating redundancy with multiple and chained assignments

Sometimes, you need several understudies. Or you might need everyone to play the same part. Either way, Jinja's got you covered:

{% set x, y, z = 1, 2, 'three' %} # Casting multiple roles at once! {% set foo = bar = baz = 'shared_role' %} # Triplets doing the same performance!

Through these Jinja feats, you can take down redundancy and your scripts will look as elegant as a ballet performance.

Remedies for variable-induced headaches

Facing difficulties with your variables? Here's my foolproof checklist:

  1. Scoping: Got an access issue? Verify your namespaces for all loops.
  2. Syntax: Forgetting the {% set %} can cause major issues—it's not a fan of {{ }}.
  3. Testing: Don't forget—always test drive your assignments.
  4. Documentation: The Jinja docs are your best friend for guidelines, examples, and late-night companionship!

Master advanced techniques with Jinja variables

Apply filters to your set

Cast a net wider on variables—team them up with filters:

{% set formatted_date = current_date|date('Y-m-d') %}

Let filters enforce discipline, taming your variables without changing their core identity.

Unleash power with conditional variable assignments

For more control, use conditional statements when setting variables:

{% set variable = 'Yes' if user_is_active else 'No' %}

This if-else classic adjusts the value based on user_is_active, giving your templates an unpredictable twist!

Engage functions and methods

In Jinja, setting variables can also involve functions or methods:

{% set variable = my_function('arg1', 'arg2') %}

Functions and methods unleash a whole world of dynamic assignments and intricate data play.