Calling a value in a PHP array -> vs []

Question

There is something fundamental I don't understand about PHP arrays. If I create an array and I want to call a value from that array when and why should I use $array->item vs. $array['item']?

My array:

$fruit_qty = array('watermelon' => 3, 'apple' => 5);

If I want the value '5' to print should I use:

echo "Number of Apples: " . $fruit_qty->apple;

vs

echo "Number of Apples: " . $fruit_qty['apple'];

My guess thus far is that $array->item calls a specific value from the array. Whereas, $array['item'] calls and array nested in the array. So I could potentially do $array['sub_array']->value. Is this correct?

PHP objects != PHP arrays In your example, you cannot do $fruit_qty->apple, as you would get Notice: Trying to get property of non-object — Michael Berkowski
– Michael Berkowski, Commented Jun 5, 2013 at 21:59

Phil Cross · Accepted Answer · 2013-06-05 21:58:00Z

7

-> is an object caller. Since arrays aren't objects then you shouldn't use the -> code.

Using square quotes is the correct way to retrieve an array value.

answered Jun 5, 2013 at 21:58

Phil Cross

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2 Comments

kevinaskevin Over a year ago

Let's assume I had an empty array called $fruit_qty. What would be the difference between $fruit_qty['apple'] = 5; and $fruit_qty->apple = 5;?

Michael Berkowski Over a year ago

@fortmac The -> implies that $fruit_qty is an object and not an array. If you attempted to use -> on an array, you would get an error like Warning: Attempt to assign property of non-object

Niet the Dark Absol · Accepted Answer · 2013-06-05 21:58:43Z

4

-> applies to objects, [] applies to arrays. They are two completely different operators and should not be confused.

answered Jun 5, 2013 at 21:58

Niet the Dark Absol

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