Search Multiple Words / String Pattern Using grep Command
Q. How do I search multiple string using grep command? For example I'd like to search word1, word2, word3 and so on within /path/to/file. How do I force grep to search multiple words?
A. grep command supports regular expression pattern.
Grep command example
To search multiple words, use following syntax:
grep 'word1|word2|word3' /path/to/file
For example, search warning, error, and critical words in a text log file called /var/log/messages, enter:
$ grep 'warning|error|critical' /var/log/messages
To just match words, add -w swith:
$ grep -w 'warning|error|critical' /var/log/messages
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Related Linux / UNIX FAQ:
- Finding a File containing a particular text string in Linux server
- Howto use grep command in Linux / UNIX
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Tags: critical words, grep, grep command, log messages, regular expression, regular expression pattern, string pattern, syntax ~ Last updated on: May 5, 2008
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