not

In Python, the not keyword is a logical operator that inverts the truth value of the expression returning True or False. It’s also used in negated membership tests with the not in operator and negated identity checks with the is not the operator.

Python not Keyword Examples

Here’s a quick example to demonstrate how to use the not keyword:

Python 
>>> not True
False

>>> not False
True

>>> not (5 > 3)
False

>>> not (2 == 2)
False

In these examples, the not keyword takes a single Boolean expression and flips its value. The not True expression evaluates to False, while not False evaluates to True. Similarly, not (5 > 3) evaluates to False because 5 > 3 is True, and not (2 == 2) evaluates to False because 2 == 2 is True.

Python not Keyword Use Cases

  • Negating Boolean values in logical expressions
  • Simplifying conditionals in if, elif, and while statements
  • Improving code readability by clarifying the intent of a condition
Using the "not" Boolean Operator in Python

Tutorial

Using the "not" Boolean Operator in Python

In this step-by-step tutorial, you'll learn how Python's "not" operator works and how to use it in your code. You'll get to know its features and see what kind of programming problems you can solve by using "not" in Python.

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For additional information on related topics, take a look at the following resources:

By Leodanis Pozo Ramos • Updated Jan. 6, 2025 • Reviewed by Dan Bader
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