How to convert array of comma delimited values to array with unique values?

Question

I have an array of comma delimited properties:

Red,Green
Green
Blue,Black
Yellow
Red,Black

Now I'd like to extract every unique colour from the array resulting in the following list:

Red
Green
Blue
Black
Yellow

Since I'm extracting the information from a database with Entity Framework in quite a complex structure I'd like to do the conversion in one statement if possible.

Split on the commas, merge all the values into one list and do a Distinct() on it, perhaps? — Tim
– Tim, Commented Nov 13, 2014 at 9:31
I haven't tried very many things since I just didn't know how to do it. — Tech
– Tech, Commented Nov 13, 2014 at 11:58

Alberto · Accepted Answer · 2014-11-13 09:33:57Z

4

Assuming your array of properties is like:

string[] properties = {"Red,Green","Green","Blue,Black","Yellow","Red,Black"};

you should split on comma and select the distinct values in this way:

string[] unique = properties.SelectMany(x=>x.Split(',')).Distinct().ToArray();

answered Nov 13, 2014 at 9:33

Alberto

16k9 gold badges49 silver badges61 bronze badges

Sign up to request clarification or add additional context in comments.

2 Comments

Tech Over a year ago

Yes, that works with a simple array. Thank you. Unfortunately that does not work with Entity Framework and SQL Server. I get an error saying LINQ to Entities does not recognize the method 'System.String[] Split(Char[])'

Alberto Over a year ago

Just call ToArray() before the SelectMany

Collectives™ on Stack Overflow

How to convert array of comma delimited values to array with unique values?

1 Answer 1

2 Comments

Your Answer

Hot Network Questions

Collectives™ on Stack Overflow

1 Answer 1

2 Comments

Your Answer

Sign up or log in

Post as a guest

Related