Master Python Regex: Named and Anonymous Groups Explained with Real Examples

The author shares a Python regular‑expression question raised by a fan in a chat group and provides a detailed walkthrough.

1. Introduction

A fan asked about special sequences in Python regex, prompting a discussion that the author now presents for everyone.

2. Solution

The answer, contributed by an experienced member, includes two main examples: one using named groups and another using anonymous groups.

import re

# Named group with backreference
pattern = re.compile(r"(?P<num>\d+).*?(?P=num)")
txt = "123你好呀123"
print(re.findall(pattern, txt))

# Anonymous group with backreference
pattern = re.compile(r"(\d+).*?\1")
txt = "123你好呀123"
print(re.findall(pattern, txt))

The output image shows the matched results.

A second, simpler example further clarifies the concept.

txt = "测试文本123python   测试文本python~"
pattern = re.compile(r"([一-龟]+)(\d+)(\w+)(\s+)(\1)(\3).*")
print(re.findall(pattern, txt))

The resulting image displays the matches, making the regex behavior much clearer.

3. Summary

The article, based on a fan’s query, explains special regex sequences in Python, provides concrete code demonstrations, and helps readers solve similar pattern‑matching problems.

Thanks are given to the fan and contributors for their participation.