python-regexHow to match a plus sign in Python regex?

To match a plus sign in Python regex, use the + character. This character will match one or more of the preceding character. For example, the following code will match any string that contains one or more a characters:

import re

pattern = re.compile(r'a+')

string = 'aaabbbccc'

match = pattern.search(string)

if match:
    print(match.group())

Output example

aaa

The code consists of the following parts:

1. import re - imports the re module which provides regular expression matching operations.
2. pattern = re.compile(r'a+') - creates a regular expression pattern object with the pattern a+ which will match one or more a characters.
3. string = 'aaabbbccc' - creates a string to match against.
4. match = pattern.search(string) - searches the string for a match against the pattern.
5. if match: - checks if a match was found.
6. print(match.group()) - prints the matched string.

Helpful links

• Python Regular Expression Documentation

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