Escape Double Quotes for Json in Python

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a popular data interchange format that uses human-readable text to represent data objects. When working with JSON in Python, you may encounter situations where you need to include double quotes within a string. Escaping double quotes is essential to ensure the proper representation of data in JSON. In this article, we’ll explore commonly used methods to escape double quotes in Python for JSON and provide complete examples with output printing.

How to Escape Double Quotes for Json in Python?

Below, are the methods for How To Escape Double Quotes For JSON In Python.

• Using Backslashes
• Using Single Quotes
• Using Triple Quotes
• Using json.dumps()

Escape Double Quotes For Json Using Backslashes

The simplest way to escape double quotes in a string is by using backslashes (\). This method involves prefixing the double quote with a backslash, indicating that it is part of the string and not a closing quote.

In this example, the backslashes before the inner double quotes prevent them from being interpreted as the closing quotes for the string.

Python3

json_string = '{"name": "John \\"Doe\\""}'
print(json_string)

Output

{"name": "John \"Doe\""}

Escape Double Quotes For Json Using Single Quotes for Outer String

Another approach is to use single quotes (‘) for the outer string. This way, you can freely use double quotes within the string without the need for escaping. By using single quotes for the outer string, you can include double quotes without any issues.

Python3

json_string = '{"name": \'John "Doe"\' }'
print(json_string)

Output

{"name": 'John "Doe"' }

Escape Double Quotes For Json Using Triple Quotes

Triple quotes (”’ or “””) can be used for multiline strings and are also useful for avoiding the need to escape double quotes within the string. Triple quotes allow the inclusion of both single and double quotes without the need for additional escaping.

Python3

json_string = '''{"name": "John "Doe""}'''
print(json_string)

Output

{"name": "John "Doe""}

Escape Double Quotes For Json Using json.dumps()

The json.dumps() method from the json module can be used to serialize a Python object to a JSON-formatted string. This method automatically handles the escaping of special characters, including double quotes. By using json.dumps(), you can ensure proper JSON formatting without manually escaping double quotes.

Python3

import json

data = {"name": 'John "Doe"'}
json_string = json.dumps(data)
print(json_string)

Output

{"name": "John \"Doe\""}

Conclusion

In conclusion, escaping double quotes in JSON strings is a common necessity when working with data in Python. The methods outlined here, including backslashes, single quotes, triple quotes, and json.dumps(), offer different approaches to handle this requirement. Choose the method that aligns with your coding preferences and project requirements, ensuring a smooth and error-free interaction with JSON data in your Python applications.