How to Filter Array Values with a SQL-Like \'%search%\' Query in PHP?

Filter Array Values Using a SQL-Like "%search%" Query in PHP

When constructing an autocomplete field with JQueryUI, retrieving specific results from an array based on user input can be a challenge. To effectively filter array values based on a partial search string, similar to the SQL LIKE '%search%' query, it's important to understand the nuances of array manipulation and regular expressions. Without using exact matches, the task requires a customized approach.

One solution involves employing the preg_grep function, which enables the use of a regular expression to filter an array. By properly escaping the user input and using the ~ delimiter, a regular expression can be crafted to match any string containing the search string anywhere within it. For example:

<code class="php">$input = preg_quote('bl', '~'); // escape the input string
$data = array('orange', 'blue', 'green', 'red', 'pink', 'brown', 'black');

$result = preg_grep('~' . $input . '~', $data);</code>

The resulting $result array will contain all elements from $data that contain the sequence 'bl' anywhere in their value, effectively replicating the behavior of a SQL LIKE '%search%' query. By carefully combining array manipulation techniques and regular expressions, you can filter array values in a flexible and efficient manner, enhancing the user experience and accuracy of your autocomplete functionality.

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