Use pattern matching to validate fields
Log in to add to favouritesThe matches pattern validation method ensures that the value of a field matches a specific pattern defined by a regular expression.
A regular expression is a special text string for describing a search pattern. We use these expressions to validate the text that an author enters into a field of an entry.
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![](/image-library/resources-images/user-guides-images/regex-valdiation.x416953f1.png?quality=90&format=webp&width=1200px&height=680px)
How to set the validation
With a content type open for editing:
- Select the text field you want to set a validation rule for and pick the Validation tab from the Field Settings panel.
- Choose the required regular expression pattern you want to use from the Matches pattern dropdown, or define your own using the Custom option.
- You can add an alternative validation message by entering it in the Validation message text box. This will be displayed if the field fails validation when published.
Setting a custom expression
You can use the Custom option in the matches pattern dropdown to create your own. Using a handy library and expression checker, like Regular Expression 101, to test your expression makes things easier.
Predefined regular expressions
We've included some predefined expressions covering some standard scenarios.
Website address
Allowed values | Disallowed values |
---|---|
http://www.zengenti.com | special%character@zengenti.com |
https://contensis.com | name@zengenti |
http://www.contensis.com/help-and-docs/user-guides/introduction-to-contensis | notawebsite.com |
Email address
Allowed values | Disallowed values |
---|---|
niceandsimple@example.com | Abc.example.com |
very.common@example.com | A@b@c@example.com |
a.little.lengthy.but.fine@dept.example.com | john..doe@example.com |
UK postcodes
Allowed values | Disallowed values |
---|---|
SY8 3EG | SY8_3EG |
sy83eg | sy8-3eg |
SY83EG | sy8 £eg |
12 hour time
Allowed values | Disallowed values |
---|---|
10:20 am | 12:15 |
10.42.01 AM | 101603 |
09 26 03 PM | 12am |
7:35 PM | 10:67 |
24 hour time
Allowed values | Disallowed values |
---|---|
10:20 | 1215 |
10.42.01 | 101603 |
09 26 03 | 12 am |
07:57 | 10:67 |
Title casing
Allowed values | Disallowed values |
---|---|
This Is A Title | This is a title |
This Is Another Title | This is A title |