Good Python modules for fuzzy string comparison?

Taking a deeper glance

To difflib or not to difflib

get_close_matches() function from difflib helps retrieve similar strings:

import difflib
# Remember, an apple a day keeps the doctor away!
print(difflib.get_close_matches("appel", ["apple", "ape", "zebra"]))
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This finds similar strings based on their ratio():

from difflib import SequenceMatcher
# An apple by any other spelling...
similarity_ratio = SequenceMatcher(None, 'apple', 'appel').ratio()
print(similarity_ratio)
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python-Levenshtein is where customization and speed meet, handling Unicode strings just fine.

Jellyfish for nuanced tasks

When phonetic comparisons become the crux, yield to Jellyfish. Spelling differences in similar sounds or names? Tackle them with Metaphone and Soundex:

import jellyfish
# Catherine or Kathryn, that is the question...
print(jellyfish.soundex("Catherine"))
print(jellyfish.soundex("Kathryn"))
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Harnessing advanced matching

Damerau-Levenshtein for complex situations

Damerau-Levenshtein deals with transpositions well - an edge over regular Levenshtein distance:

import jellyfish
# Apple? Appel? Or something in-between?
print(jellyfish.damerau_levenshtein_distance("apple", "aplep"))
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Speed matters for large datasets

Rapidfuzz takes the podium when dealing with major data collections, thanks to its efficiency and speed.

Optimal string metrics

Choosing between string metrics? Here's your compass:

• Levenshtein distance for edit distance calculations.
• Damerau-Levenshtein for strings with transpositions.
• Short strings? Opt for Jaro-Winkler distance.
• Phonetics involved? Metaphone and Soundex are your go-tos.