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To use text as a name for a value in Python, store the value in a dictionary under that string key: values[name] = value. Python does not turn a string such as "score" into a variable automatically. A dictionary is the clear, flexible choice for names selected at runtime; use globals() only when you specifically need to bind a module-level name.
Use a dictionary for names chosen at runtime
A variable name in Python is a name bound to an object. A string containing the same letters is still just data; assigning that string to another variable does not create a new variable with its contents as its name. A dictionary provides the natural way to associate arbitrary text keys with values:
name = "score"
values = {}
values[name] = 42
print(values["score"]) # 42Here, name is a string and values stores the association between that string and 42. You can retrieve or update the value using the key:
values["score"] = 50
print(values[name]) # 50This approach is useful when names come from input, configuration, or a set of options, and it keeps the data together in one inspectable mapping. Keys can be strings that would not be valid Python variable names, too.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
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- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
When a real module-level name is required
If you have a specific reason to add a name to the current module’s global namespace, you can use the mapping returned by globals():
name = "score"
globals()[name] = 42
print(score) # 42, in this module's global namespaceThis binds score in the module namespace; it does not convert the string into a normal local variable. Module globals can also make code harder to inspect, so prefer a dictionary unless other code genuinely needs that module-level name. The Python execution model documentation describes namespaces and name binding.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
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Why a string cannot create a function local
Python determines local names in a function from binding operations in that function’s body. Assigning to a name there makes it local unless the function declares it global or nonlocal for the relevant scope. A string passed to globals() does not change that rule or reliably create an ordinary local variable. Reading a local name before it has been assigned can raise UnboundLocalError. See the Python execution model and programming FAQ for details.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Why not use exec()?
exec() runs Python code supplied as text; it is not a convenient data-storage mechanism. Building code from a string to create a variable makes the result harder to understand and introduces security risk if the text is untrusted. Keep a runtime-selected name as a dictionary key instead of executing it as code. The Python built-in function reference documents exec(), and the programming FAQ cautions against using dynamic evaluation when a simpler approach will do.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
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- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Which approach should you choose?
| Approach | What it does | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
Dictionary, such as values[name] = value |
Stores a value under a string key | Runtime-selected names and dynamic collections |
globals()[name] = value |
Binds a name in the module’s global namespace | A genuine need for a module-level name |
exec() |
Executes Python code from text | Not ordinary dynamic storage; avoid it for this purpose |
For user-provided names, validate the input if your application requires a limited set of keys. In most cases, keep the input as data in a dictionary rather than trying to turn it into executable code or a variable.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
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