There's probably a function that does what you want in common_util.py.
By Sherrie
Util
An entirely made up word used to describe a poker group's inability to 1)count chips, or; 2) understand the true value of the chips involved in the game.
1) "How many utils do we get?"; 2)"I raise you 10,000 utils"; 3) "I lost all my utils to a 2-3 off suit.”
By Bette-Ann
Utilize
A substitute for the word "use" to be employed when you want to make something sound more important or difficult than it really is.
Person says: "We utilize an alphabetical schematic to organize our records."
Translate: "We file documents alphabetically."