Content · Programming · PHP

pg_delete

Learn how to use pg_delete in PHP with three focused code examples, practical considerations and common mistakes.

1 views Published Oct 16, 2026 Updated Oct 16, 2026

When working with PHP, pg_delete can help with a specific task: deletes PostgreSQL table rows based on an associative array of conditions.

This guide shows what pg_delete does, how to use it in code, and which details you should check before relying on the result.

What Is pg_delete in PHP?

Deletes PostgreSQL table rows based on an associative array of conditions.

Usage: The following examples show calls with suitable values. Consult the function parameters described in the examples, especially when optional arguments or extensions are involved.

Example 1: Basic Usage

The first example introduces pg_delete with a direct PHP expression.

<?php

$databaseConnection = pg_connect(getenv("PG_CONNECTION_STRING")); if ($databaseConnection === false) { throw new RuntimeException("Connection failed"); } var_dump(pg_delete($databaseConnection, "draft_notes", ["id" => 15]));

The code is an illustration; its result depends on the relevant PHP extension, runtime state and input.

Example 2: A Different Input or Option

This second example demonstrates another input or condition, so you can compare the behavior with the first example.

<?php

$databaseConnection = pg_connect(getenv("PG_CONNECTION_STRING")); if ($databaseConnection === false) { throw new RuntimeException("Connection failed"); } var_dump(pg_delete($databaseConnection, "expired_tokens", ["token_id" => 24], PGSQL_DML_EXEC));

The code is an illustration; its result depends on the relevant PHP extension, runtime state and input.

Practical Example

Here is a small scenario illustrating how pg_delete can fit into application code. Run the example only in an appropriate development environment if it reads files, changes data, starts processes or connects to a service.

<?php

$databaseConnection = pg_connect(getenv("PG_CONNECTION_STRING")); if ($databaseConnection === false) { throw new RuntimeException("Connection failed"); } $rowIdentifier = 15; if ($rowIdentifier > 0) { $deleted = pg_delete($databaseConnection, "temporary_rows", ["id" => $rowIdentifier]); if (!$deleted) { throw new RuntimeException("Delete failed"); } }

The code is an illustration; its result depends on the relevant PHP extension, runtime state and input.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

  • Core behavior: Deletes PostgreSQL table rows based on an associative array of conditions.
  • Important limitation: Deleting rows is destructive; require authorization and avoid broad or empty conditions. Prefer parameterized SQL for complex conditions.
  • Production use: Check return values and handle failures before acting on the result.

Comparison With Related Functions

Function or ApproachDifference
pg_delete()Deletes PostgreSQL table rows based on an associative array of conditions.
pg_query_params()Related approach. Its purpose and return value differ; select it when your task matches that operation.

Common Beginner Mistakes

MistakeCorrect Approach
Overlooking a special case of pg_delete().Deleting rows is destructive; require authorization and avoid broad or empty conditions. Prefer parameterized SQL for complex conditions.
Using pg_delete() without checking the outcome.Handle failures and confirm that the output is suitable for the next step.

Key Takeaways

  • Deletes PostgreSQL table rows based on an associative array of conditions.
  • Deleting rows is destructive; require authorization and avoid broad or empty conditions. Prefer parameterized SQL for complex conditions.
  • Test the function with relevant inputs before using it in production.

Use pg_delete when its behavior matches the job you need to complete. For dependable results, consider the input data, returned value and limitations shown above.

Share this resourceSend this page to someone who may find it useful.