Syntax for accessing nested array elements in PHP double quotes string

Question

I'm attempting to access a nested array element within a double quotes string, like this:

"$variable[first_index][second_index]";

This is throwing an Array to string conversion notice and halting my script.

Is there a correct syntax for accessing the data within a string in this manner, or do I need to set a temp variable to reference the required data, and then use THAT in the string?

hmm. OK, if that's the only workaround, post an answer and I'll except it. I need to also use \r\n, that's the reasoning for using double quotes but I suppose I can always just append that part to the end of the string after the fact - thanks! — ineedhelp, Jun 03 '17 at 22:55

Szymon · Accepted Answer · 2017-06-03T23:09:09.343

3

Use this syntax:

$string = "Value is {$variable["first_index"]["second_index"]}";

It's called complex extended variable syntax and it's very useful. You can access fields of an object inside string in double quotes, as well as nested array.

edited Jun 03 '17 at 23:09

answered Jun 03 '17 at 22:58

Szymon

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@ineedhelp I always go for this approach and recommend that you do. This avoids having bounce between literal strings and variables via concatenation. Your text editor will/should highlight these variables properly which improves readability. After all, double quotes are specifically designed/used in php to permit variables within the string. – mickmackusa Jun 03 '17 at 23:15

Syntax for accessing nested array elements in PHP double quotes string

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