Error
Error Code:
2200C
PostgreSQL Error 2200C: Invalid Escape Character Usage
Description
PostgreSQL Error 2200C, 'invalid use of escape character', indicates a syntax issue where a backslash or another designated escape character is used incorrectly within a string literal. This typically occurs when PostgreSQL cannot properly interpret an escape sequence, leading to a Data Exception.
Error Message
invalid use of escape character
Known Causes
4 known causesStandard String Literal Misinterpretation
Using backslashes in standard SQL string literals (e.g., 'path\to\file') without the 'E' prefix can cause this error, as PostgreSQL treats backslashes as literal characters by default unless explicitly told to interpret escapes.
Incorrect Escape String Prefix (E)
Omitting the 'E' prefix for string literals containing backslash escape sequences (e.g., E'string with \n newline') will prevent PostgreSQL from interpreting them, leading to an 'invalid use of escape character' if a backslash is present.
Malformed Escape Sequences
The escape sequence itself might be invalid or incomplete, such as '\x' followed by non-hexadecimal digits when expecting a hexadecimal byte, or an unclosed escape sequence at the end of a string.
Client Application Query Generation
Client applications or ORMs might incorrectly format string literals or escape sequences before sending them to PostgreSQL, leading to malformed queries that trigger this error.
Solutions
Coming SoonDetailed step-by-step solutions for this error are being prepared. In the meantime, try these general troubleshooting tips:
General Troubleshooting Tips
- Check the error message carefully for specific details
- Review recent changes that might have caused the error
- Search for the exact error code in the official documentation
- Check log files for additional context
- Try restarting the application or service