Content · Programming · PHP

PHP readline_list_history() Function: Usage and Examples

Learn PHP readline_list_history() through clear code examples, practical usage, important limitations and common mistakes.

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

readline_list_history() returns recorded readline history entries in an array. This guide explains the function with focused examples and the decisions that matter in real applications.

What Is readline_list_history() in PHP?

Returns recorded readline history entries in an array.

A typical call looks like this:

<?php

readline_list_history();

The input arguments shown in the call identify the relevant connection, resource, value, path or configuration for the operation. Pay attention to argument order and to the return value demonstrated below.

Example 1: Basic Usage

This first example uses readline_list_history() directly to demonstrate its basic purpose.

<?php

readline_add_history("help"); print_r(readline_list_history());

The returned value illustrates returns recorded readline history entries in an array. History may contain sensitive text; do not log or display it indiscriminately.

Example 2: A Different Input or Option

The next example changes the input or option, showing another supported use of readline_list_history().

<?php

readline_clear_history(); print_r(readline_list_history());

The returned value illustrates returns recorded readline history entries in an array. History may contain sensitive text; do not log or display it indiscriminately.

Practical Example: Applying the Function

In application code, readline_list_history() belongs in a controlled workflow with input validation, a checked result and cleanup where needed.

<?php

readline_add_history("status"); foreach (readline_list_history() as $historyEntry) echo $historyEntry . PHP_EOL;

The returned value illustrates returns recorded readline history entries in an array. History may contain sensitive text; do not log or display it indiscriminately.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

  • Main behavior: Returns recorded readline history entries in an array.
  • Important limitation: History may contain sensitive text; do not log or display it indiscriminately.
  • Requirements: This function uses the CLI readline extension; it is not designed for an ordinary web request.

Comparison With Related Functions

Function or ApproachWhen to Use It
readline_list_history()Returns recorded readline history entries in an array.
readline_add_historyAdds a line to the in-memory readline command history.

Common Beginner Mistakes

MistakeCorrect Approach
Ignoring the specific limits or preconditions of readline_list_history().History may contain sensitive text; do not log or display it indiscriminately.
Assuming every environment produces the same result.This function uses the CLI readline extension; it is not designed for an ordinary web request.

Key Takeaways

  • Returns recorded readline history entries in an array.
  • History may contain sensitive text; do not log or display it indiscriminately.
  • This function uses the CLI readline extension; it is not designed for an ordinary web request.

Use readline_list_history() when its behavior matches your task, and verify the relevant return value before taking further action. The output depends on the local configuration when it uses resources, files or an interactive terminal.

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