[endymi0n]

On a related note, also the Go stdlib regex package is pretty naive and imperformant compared to a full blown and modern backtracking PCRE implementation (at 1/10 the LOC and complexity) - same thing goes for the reflection based JSON package (which is still kinda "fast enough").

The focus wasn't so much on performance but on initial completeness, good interface, versatility, clarity and simplicity - with faster or more specialized implementations left to the community.

There might be different opinions about that, but I personally like the approach of having a solid and ordered programming pocket knife - that also doesn't replace a Katana for cutting.

[dsymonds]

The standard regexp package, unlike PCRE, is actually a proper regular expression parser/matcher. Anything doing backtracking is at risk of exponential blowup and isn't safe.

https://swtch.com/~rsc/regexp/regexp1.html

[endymi0n]

which is exactly what I meant with less specialized but safe :)

[jonlawlor]

It is also often much faster than pcre.

[paulddraper]

On differing opinions: I prefer having a Katana, an automatic shotgun, and a spy drone, and leaving the pocket knife at home.

In other words....C/C++ :) I just try not to blow off my leg.