dict.get() Get with default
Last updated: 2026-09-22
dict.get() Get with default
dict.get(key[, default]) returns the value for key; returns default if missing (no KeyError).
| Category | Dict Methods |
|---|---|
| Kind | Built-in Type Method |
| Python Version | all |
📝 Syntax
dict.get(key[, default])⚙️ Parameters
| key Required | The key to look up. |
|---|---|
| default Optional | Value returned when the key is missing; default None.（Default：None） |
Returns：The value for key, or default if missing (no KeyError).
Mutates the original：No (returns a new object)
▶ Example
Edit the code, press Run, and see the result in the output panel:
Output：
1
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❓ FAQ
QWhat is the difference between get() and d[key]?
AWhen the key does not exist, d[key] raises KeyError while get() returns default (None by default) without error.
QDoes get() insert the default value when the key is missing?
ANo, it only returns the default; to "insert if absent" use setdefault().
QHow do I check for key existence with get?
Aif d.get('k') is not None only holds when "the value can never be None"; the more robust form is 'k' in d.
QDoes get(key, []) create a new empty list every time, and is that a trap?
AThere is no sharing problem: get() does not write the default into the dict, and the new list created each call is discarded after use. This is what makes it safer than setdefault.
