set.symmetric_difference() Symmetric difference
Last updated: 2026-09-22
set.symmetric_difference() Symmetric difference
set.symmetric_difference(other) returns elements in either set but not in both.
| Category | Set Methods |
|---|---|
| Kind | Built-in Type Method |
| Python Version | all |
📝 Syntax
set.symmetric_difference(other)⚙️ Parameters
| other Required | An iterable to compare with the set. |
|---|
Returns：A new set with elements in exactly one of set or other.
Mutates the original：No (returns a new object)
▶ Example
Edit the code, press Run, and see the result in the output panel:
Output：
{1, 4}💡 Related Cases
More case studies coming soon — check back later.
❓ FAQ
QWhat does symmetric_difference() return?
AElements that are in only one of the sets, not in both. {1, 2, 3}.symmetric_difference({2, 3, 4}) gives {1, 4}.
QWhat is the difference from the ^ operator?
AThe ^ operator requires both sides to be sets; the argument of symmetric_difference() can be any iterable.
QDoes it return a new set?
AYes, the original set is unchanged; to modify in place use symmetric_difference_update().
