Build and test regular expressions visually

Use the regex builder to assemble a common pattern from structured parts, then test it against sample text. It is a quick way to start with a readable pattern before refining special cases in the regex tester.

How it works

  1. Choose a pattern type or add the tokens you need.
  2. Adjust boundaries, character classes, repetition, and flags.
  3. Test the generated expression against representative input before shipping it.

Capabilities and limits

  • Builds common patterns such as slugs, identifiers, hex colors, versions, and keys.
  • Shows a live expression you can copy into your project.
  • Does not replace testing against the full range of production input.

Examples

Slug

^[a-z0-9]+(?:-[a-z0-9]+)*$

Matches lowercase URL slugs such as release-notes-2026.

Semantic version

^v?\d+\.\d+\.\d+$

Matches v1.2.3 or 1.2.3 without prerelease labels.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the builder and tester?

The builder starts common patterns from controls; the tester is better for running a finished expression against larger sample text.

Should I always use anchors?

Use ^ and $ when the whole value must match. Leave them out when searching for a match within longer text.