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# groups(matching:)

Fetches all groups matching the specified predicate.

```
func groups(matching predicate: NSPredicate?) throws -> [CNGroup]
```

## Parameters

`predicate`

The predicate to use to fetch the matching groups. Set predicate to `nil` to match all groups.

## Return Value

An array of [`CNGroup`](/documentation/Contacts/CNGroup) objects that match the predicate.

## Discussion

This method returns an empty array when no matching groups are found. If an error occurs, this method returns `nil`. You should use only the predicates defined in [`CNGroup`](/documentation/Contacts/CNGroup) class predicates. Compound predicates are not supported. Contacts may be members of one or more groups, depending upon the account they come from.

> Handling Errors in Swift: In Swift, this method returns a nonoptional result and is marked with the `throws` keyword to indicate that it throws an error in cases of failure.
> You call this method in a `try` expression and handle any errors in the `catch` clauses of a `do` statement, as described in [Error Handling](https://docs.swift.org/swift-book/LanguageGuide/ErrorHandling.html) in [The Swift Programming Language](https://docs.swift.org/swift-book/) and <doc://com.apple.documentation/documentation/Swift/about-imported-cocoa-error-parameters>.

---

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