Return stable JSON error objects with an HTTP status, machine-readable code, helpful message and an internal correlation identifier.
Before using it, identify which data, connection or runtime state the operation reads or changes. This avoids examples that appear to work but apply to a different context.
How Does This Work?
Return stable JSON error objects with an HTTP status, machine-readable code, helpful message and an internal correlation identifier.
Syntax:
See the complete steps in the practical examples below.
Parameters and Return Value
This is an application workflow rather than one built-in function. Its inputs are request fields, configuration and application state described in each example.
The operation produces an HTTP response or updates application state as shown in the examples.
Example 1: Basic Usage
<?php
http_response_code(422);
header('Content-Type: application/json; charset=utf-8');
echo json_encode(['error'=>['code'=>'invalid_input','message'=>'Please check your data']], JSON_THROW_ON_ERROR);Return stable JSON error objects with an HTTP status, machine-readable code, helpful message and an internal correlation identifier.
Example 2: Another Case
<?php
http_response_code(404);
header('Content-Type: application/json; charset=utf-8');
echo json_encode(['error'=>['code'=>'not_found','message'=>'The resource was not found']], JSON_THROW_ON_ERROR);The second example changes the input or surrounding conditions, which matters when choosing this API for real application code.
Practical Example
<?php
$correlationId = bin2hex(random_bytes(8));
http_response_code(500);
header('Content-Type: application/json; charset=utf-8');
echo json_encode(['error'=>['code'=>'internal_error','message'=>'Request failed','request_id'=>$correlationId]], JSON_THROW_ON_ERROR);The practical example is a teaching scenario. Change sample configuration and credentials before using a similar design in an application.
Important Behavior and Edge Cases
- Apply authentication, authorization, input limits and failure handling where the workflow crosses trust boundaries.
- Relevant PHP environment: PHP core. Ensure the required extension and operating-system capabilities are present.
- Check results and release resources where necessary; successful syntax alone does not guarantee a successful operation.
Comparison With Related Functions
| Option | When to Use It |
|---|---|
Returning Consistent API Error Responses | Return stable JSON error objects with an HTTP status, machine-readable code, helpful message and an internal correlation identifier. |
PHP web application design | Use this related operation for its different responsibilities; do not assume identical inputs or return values. |
Common Beginner Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|
| Assuming a successful return value | Inspect the returned value and handle failures according to this operation’s contract. |
| Using the API without its required environment | Supply the required resources, runtime configuration and permissions before calling it. |
| Copying demonstration values into production | Use application-specific validated values, secure configuration and safe error handling. |
Key Takeaways
- Return stable JSON error objects with an HTTP status, machine-readable code, helpful message and an internal correlation identifier.
- Apply authentication, authorization, input limits and failure handling where the workflow crosses trust boundaries.
- Validate inputs and handle failure conditions before integrating this operation into a production workflow.
Return stable JSON error objects with an HTTP status, machine-readable code, helpful message and an internal correlation identifier. Use the appropriate runtime and treat any environment-dependent output as an example, not a guaranteed result.