What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Use either {} or dict() to create a new, empty Python dictionary. The first is dictionary display syntax; the second calls the built-in dict constructor with no arguments. Both produce separate, mutable dictionary objects.
How to create an empty dictionary
Assign either expression to a variable:
by_literal = {}
by_constructor = dict()
print(type(by_literal)) # <class 'dict'>
print(by_literal == by_constructor) # True
print(by_literal is by_constructor) # FalseThe equality check is true because both dictionaries contain the same entries—none. The identity check is false because each expression creates a new object.
What is the difference between {} and dict()?
| Expression | What it does | When it fits |
|---|---|---|
{} |
Creates a dictionary using dictionary display syntax. The Python language reference describes a dictionary display as “a possibly empty series of dict items enclosed in curly braces.” Python language reference | A concise, direct way to write an empty dictionary. |
dict() |
Calls the built-in dictionary constructor without arguments, which returns a new empty dictionary. Python 3.14.7 built-in types documentation | Useful when the surrounding code uses dict to build dictionaries from mappings, iterables, or keyword arguments. |
For example, dict() can initialize from pairs as well as create an empty dictionary:
empty = {}
from_pairs = dict([("language", "Python"), ("version", 3)])For an empty dictionary alone, either form is correct. The official documentation describes both forms but does not establish a mandatory style preference or a speed ranking for this choice.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11#1 Best Overall
Why {} does not make an empty set
In Python, empty braces mean an empty dictionary, not an empty set. Use set() when you need an empty set. Python tutorial: Data Structures
Quick Recap
empty_dict = {}
empty_set = set()Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
