JavaScript String localeCompare() Method

Basic Example

• Javascript code

Javascript code

var string1 = "apple";
var string2 = "banana";
console.log(string1.localeCompare(string2)); 

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Output:

 -1

Usage with Locales

The localeCompare() method can consider local language rules in comparison.

Example:

• Javascript code

Javascript code

var string1 = "ä";

var string2 = "z";

console.log(string1.localeCompare(string2, 'de')); //

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 Output:

 -1

In German, "ä" comes before "z", so the output is -1.

Using Options

You can use an options object to specify the type of comparison.

Example:

• Javascript code

Javascript code

var string1 = "résùmé";

var string2 = "resume";

var options = { sensitivity: 'accent' };

console.log(string1.localeCompare(string2, undefined, options)); 

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Output:

 1

Here, accents are considered, so the comparison results in 1.
Case Sensitivity

• Javascript code

Javascript code

var string1 = "apple";

var string2 = "Apple";

console.log(string1.localeCompare(string2)); // 

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Output: 

1

By default, the comparison is case-sensitive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use localeCompare() for case-insensitive comparison?

Yes, you can set { sensitivity: 'base' } in the options for case-insensitive comparison.

Q: What if I pass an invalid locale?

If an invalid locale is passed, the method uses the runtime’s default locale.

Q: Does localeCompare() modify the original string?

No, localeCompare() does not modify the original strings. It only compares them.

Conclusion

The JavaScript localeCompare() method is a powerful tool for string comparison, allowing for localized and customizable comparisons. Its ability to compare strings according to language rules and specific options makes it versatile and essential for developers working on applications that need to support different languages and cultural rules. Understanding how to use localeCompare() effectively can enhance both the functionality and user experience of your applications. Whether you are building a sorting algorithm or just need to compare two strings, localeCompare() is a reliable, robust method to consider in your developer toolkit.

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