What does JSON stand for?
| Full form | JavaScript Object Notation |
|---|---|
| Category | Technology & computing |
| Type | Abbreviation |
The abbreviation JSON stands for JavaScript Object Notation. It is a text format for representing structured data that software can exchange.
This guide covers the data format. Despite JavaScript in its name, JSON is language independent. A JSON document is data, not a script to execute, and it does not have to contain an object at its top level.
Meaning in context
- JavaScript
- The name reflects its origins in JavaScript syntax; programs written in other languages can also read and generate JSON.
- Object
- Objects contain named members. JSON also supports arrays and primitive values, so not every JSON document is an object.
- Notation
- The format has syntax rules: member names and strings use double quotes, and values can include numbers, booleans, null, arrays and objects.
Practical examples
Write a JSON object
- Before
{'city': 'Sofia'}
- After
{"city": "Sofia"}
JSON strings and member names use double quotes. Single-quoted strings can appear in some programming languages, but this first example is not valid JSON.
Choose a value type
- Before
{"available": "true"}
- After
{"available": true}
The first value is a string; the second is a boolean. Both examples are valid JSON, but they represent different types. Choose the type expected by the receiving application.
Describe a response
- Before
The API returned JavaScript.
- After
The API returned JSON containing the city name and forecast temperature.
This illustrative response is serialized data. Calling it JavaScript could imply that the response contains executable code.
Original illustrative examples, not quotations or reports of actual events.
Put JSON into practice
Is my example JSON data, and what will another program receive?
See all guidance
Write a JSON object
Check the quotes and separators rather than assuming a JavaScript object literal is also valid JSON.
{"city": "Sofia"}
Choose a value type
Choose a string, number or boolean according to the receiving application's requirements.
{"available": true}
Describe a response
Name the data format and the information carried by the response.
The API returned JSON containing the city name and forecast temperature.
These are illustrative examples. The tool prepares text in your browser; it does not connect to a service or execute code.
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By AcronymIndex Editorial Team · Editorial policy