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Contains Duplicate

Detailed guide and Python implementation for the 'Contains Duplicate' problem.

Problem Statement

Easy

Given an integer array nums, return True if any value appears at least twice in the array, and return False if every element is distinct.

Write a function containsDuplicate(nums: List[int]) -> bool.

Constraints
  • 1 <= len(nums) <= 10^5
  • -10^9 <= nums[i] <= 10^9

Examples

Example 1
Input
nums = [1, 2, 3, 1]
Output
True
Explanation

The element 1 appears at index 0 and index 3, so there is a duplicate.

Example 2
Input
nums = [1, 2, 3, 4]
Output
False
Explanation

All elements are distinct.

Example 3
Input
nums = [1, 1, 1, 3, 3, 4, 3, 2, 4, 2]
Output
True
Explanation

Multiple elements repeat: 1, 3, 4, and 2.

Need a Hint?
Consider using Arrays & Hashing-specific data structures like sets or heaps.
Edge Cases to Watch
  • Empty input structures
  • Single element inputs
  • Large numerical bounds

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