Is there a "not equal" operator in Python?
Is there a "not equal" operator in Python, and how is it used in comparisons?
This question looks at how Python handles inequality checks using operators like != and explores how they work in conditionals and logical expressions.
Yes, Python does have a "not equal" operator—and it's super straightforward to use. In fact, Python gives you two ways to express inequality:
1. The != Operator
This is the most commonly used and widely accepted way to check if two values are not equal.
a = 10
b = 20
if a != b:
print("a and b are not equal") # ✅ Output will be printed- This works with numbers, strings, lists, and other data types.
- It's used frequently in if conditions and loops.
2. The <> Operator (Obsolete)
You might see this in old Python 2 code:
if a <> b: # ❌ This no longer works in Python 3
print("Not equal")Don’t use this in Python 3—it was removed and will throw a syntax error.
Where You Might Use !=
- Filtering data (if item != 'apple')
- Validating user input
- Loop control or skipping specific conditions
So yes, Python makes it super easy to check for inequality using !=. It’s clear, readable, and works just like you'd expect. Just avoid the outdated <> and stick with the modern syntax!