Python/json:expecting property name enclosed in double quotes

python

json-parsing

data-sanitization

json-validation

byAnton Shumikhin·Jan 23, 2025

The error "Expecting property name enclosed in double quotes" is telling you there's a JSON syntax problem —keys should be double-quoted (""). To fix this, adjust your JSON as such:

// Wait, where's the tie?
{ name: "John" }

// Ah, much better!
{ "name": "John" }

And Python's json.dumps() can play the hero and auto-correct the format for a dictionary:

import json
fixed_json = json.dumps({"name": "John"})

This means the keys will be double-quoted as required, bypassing any syntax errors.

Patching up JSON blunders

Using the appropriate quotation marks

JSON is a perfectionist and expects keys and strings to be embrace warmly with double quotes. Single apostrophes (') just won't do and could cause parsing nightmares. So, amp up your error-checking game!

Say no to trailing commas

Taking care to remove any trailing commas from JSON objects or arrays will make your JSON as valid as a royal decree.

Special rules for special characters

Special characters such as newline characters (\n) and tabs (\t) need special handling in JSON data to avoid chaotic hiccups during parsing.

Decoding JSON mysteries

Tread carefully when using json.loads

Before jumping the gun with json.loads(), ensure your JSON is dressed for the occasion. Ill-formed JSON throws a ValueError tantrum. Always preen your JSON before parsing.

Safety First

Use ast.literal_eval() for a safer ride while parsing JSON. But don't forget its limitations.

Regular expressions: The secret weapon

Regular expressions are your secret weapon to fix single quotes in JSON. But beware, if not used wisely, they could create new monsters in your JSON data.

Ready to delve deeper?

Know your JSON

Sup up the JSON specification in RFC 8259. The more you understand these specifications, the better you can create valid JSON data.

Say hello to js-beautify

If you consistently battle non-standard JSON formats, consider installing js-beautify. It's the JSON whisperer that can cool down these hot potatoes by tolerating minor mistakes in your JSON data.

Always prioritize safe evaluation

Never use eval() for parsing JSON. That's a high-risk gamble that you don't want to take. Stick to json.loads() or ast.literal_eval() for safe evaluation practice.

Overcoming JSON hurdles

Transforming Python dictionaries to JSON

json.dumps() can seamlessly transform a Python dictionary to JSON, getting all keys double-quotes ready without breaking a sweat.

Pre-processing data: Your first line of defense

Pre-process and sanitize your data before working with json.loads(). An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Dealing with diverse JSON formats

Life isn't always strict standard JSON. For those less than perfect JSON data, there's js-beautify to save the day. It's more lenient and can handle minor mistakes without causing a stir.

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