Fix Python ImportError: cannot import name 'X' from 'Y' (2025 Guide)

Posted on: March 22, 2025

Encountered an "ImportError: cannot import name 'X' from 'Y'" in Python? This error occurs when Python can’t find a specific name (function, class, etc.) in the module you’re importing from. Let’s fix it fast in this 2025 guide!

What Causes "ImportError: cannot import name 'X' from 'Y'"?

This error happens when Python fails to locate the specified name within the module. Common causes include:

• Circular Imports: Two modules importing each other, causing a dependency loop.
• Typo or Wrong Name: Misspelling the name or using an outdated name no longer in the module.
• Module Structure Changes: The module’s content has changed (e.g., after an update).

Check this demo (run in a Python environment):

# File: module_a.py
from module_b import func_b

# File: module_b.py
from module_a import func_a  # Circular import

# This will trigger "ImportError"

Running this throws an ImportError due to a circular import loop.

How to Fix It: 3 Solutions

Let’s resolve this error with practical steps:

(Diagram: Developer imports a name, gets error, resolves dependency or typo, runs successfully.)

Solution 1: Resolve Circular Imports

Restructure your code to avoid circular dependencies:

# File: module_a.py
def func_a():
    print("Function A")

# File: module_b.py
from module_a import func_a  # No circular import

def func_b():
    func_a()

Move imports inside functions or refactor to break the loop.

Solution 2: Correct Typos or Names

Verify the name exists in the module:

# Wrong
from math import sqr  # Typo!

# Fixed
from math import sqrt  # Correct name

Check the module’s documentation or use `dir(module)` to list available names.

Solution 3: Update Module References

Adapt to changes in the module’s structure:

# Wrong (old version)
from sklearn.cross_validation import train_test_split

# Fixed (modern sklearn)
from sklearn.model_selection import train_test_split

Review the module’s changelog or documentation for updated import paths.

Quick Checklist

• Circular imports? (Refactor your code)
• Wrong name? (Check spelling and docs)
• Module updated? (Adjust import statements)

Conclusion

The "ImportError: cannot import name 'X' from 'Y'" in Python is a manageable issue once you pinpoint the cause—circular imports, typos, or module changes. With these 2025 solutions, your imports will work flawlessly. Got another Python error? Let us know in the comments!