Python min(): Get the Smallest Value from an Iterable

The min() function returns the smallest value from a list, tuple, set, or other iterable. It’s useful for finding the lowest number, shortest string, or smallest value in structured data.

Example

numbers = [10, 25, 7, 99, 42]
print(min(numbers))  
# Output: 7

This finds the smallest number in the list.

Syntax

min(iterable, key=None)
min(arg1, arg2, ..., key=None)

iterable → A list, tuple, set, or other sequence to find the minimum value from.
arg1, arg2, … → Multiple values can be compared directly.
key (optional) → A function to customize comparisons.
Returns → The smallest value.

1. Finding the Minimum of Multiple Numbers

print(min(10, 20, 30))  
# Output: 10

Works without needing a list.

2. Finding the Shortest String

words = ["apple", "banana", "kiwi"]
shortest = min(words, key=len)
print(shortest)  
# Output: kiwi

key=len finds the string with the fewest characters.

3. Finding the Minimum in a Dictionary

Find the lowest dictionary value.

scores = {"Alice": 85, "Bob": 92, "Charlie": 78}
lowest_scorer = min(scores, key=scores.get)
print(lowest_scorer)  
# Output: Charlie

Returns the key with the lowest value.

4. Using `min()` with Custom Sorting

Find the youngest person in a list of dictionaries.

people = [{"name": "Alice", "age": 30}, 
          {"name": "Bob", "age": 40}, 
          {"name": "Charlie", "age": 25}]

youngest = min(people, key=lambda p: p["age"])
print(youngest["name"])  
# Output: Charlie

Uses key=lambda p: p["age"] to compare ages.

5. Finding the Minimum in a Set

nums = {4, 8, 15, 23, 42}
print(min(nums))
# Output: 4

Works with sets too.

Key Notes

✔ Finds the smallest number or shortest string.
✔ Works with lists, tuples, sets, and dictionaries.
✔ Use key for custom comparisons (e.g., length, dictionary values).
✔ Works with multiple values without needing a list.