How can the PCRE functions in PHP be utilized as an alternative to ereg() for better performance?

PCRE functions in PHP can be utilized as an alternative to ereg() for better performance because PCRE (Perl Compatible Regular Expressions) functions are more efficient and powerful compared to the older ereg() functions. By using PCRE functions, you can take advantage of features like pattern modifiers, better error handling, and improved performance.

// Using PCRE functions as an alternative to ereg()

$string = "Hello World";
$pattern = "/\bHello\b/";

if (preg_match($pattern, $string)) {
    echo "Match found!";
} else {
    echo "No match found.";
}