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PHP Locale::getScript() Method: Usage and Examples

Learn how to read a locale script subtag in PHP with syntax, clear code examples, practical use, and common mistakes.

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

When working with PHP, you may need to read a locale script subtag. This guide explains the operation, shows what its arguments mean, and uses three separate examples to make the result easier to understand.

Locale::getScript: The script distinguishes writing systems such as Latin and traditional Chinese when the locale names one.

What Is Locale::getScript in PHP?

Read a locale script subtag. The script distinguishes writing systems such as Latin and traditional Chinese when the locale names one.

Syntax:

Locale::getScript(string $locale): ?string

Parameters and return value: The signature above identifies the arguments and return type where the API has a single call. For topic guides, follow the sequence of calls in the examples. Always distinguish a returned value from an object or variable modified by reference.

Important: The script may be omitted even when a language normally uses a particular writing system.

Example 1: Basic Usage

This example introduces the operation with a short and predictable input.

<?php

var_dump(Locale::getScript("zh_Hant_TW"));

The code focuses on the main operation. The script distinguishes writing systems such as Latin and traditional Chinese when the locale names one.

Example 2: Another Case

Now compare a different input, locale, date, or option to see another part of the behavior.

<?php

var_dump(Locale::getScript("en_US"));

What changes? The script may be omitted even when a language normally uses a particular writing system.

Practical Example: Applying It in an Application

Use the following separate example as a starting point for a small application task. Check any extension or environment requirements below before running it.

<?php

$examples = ["sr_Cyrl_RS", "sr_Latn_RS"];
foreach ($examples as $localeId) {
    echo $localeId . ": " . Locale::getScript($localeId) . PHP_EOL;
}

The practical example demonstrates how to apply this operation to multiple values, a reusable task, or a validated input. The script distinguishes writing systems such as Latin and traditional Chinese when the locale names one.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

  • Core behavior: The script distinguishes writing systems such as Latin and traditional Chinese when the locale names one.
  • Inputs and results: The script may be omitted even when a language normally uses a particular writing system.
  • Alternatives: Locale::parseLocale() returns multiple subtags in one call.
  • Compatibility: The intl extension is required.

Comparison With Related Functions

Function or ApproachWhen to Use It
Locale::getScriptRead a locale script subtag.
Related PHP approachLocale::parseLocale() returns multiple subtags in one call.

Common Beginner Mistakes

MistakeCorrect Approach
Using an incorrect input or optionThe script may be omitted even when a language normally uses a particular writing system.
Confusing this API with a related operationLocale::parseLocale() returns multiple subtags in one call.
Assuming output is identical across environmentsCheck return values and required extensions or versions. The intl extension is required.

Key Takeaways

  • Locale::getScript helps you read a locale script subtag.
  • The script distinguishes writing systems such as Latin and traditional Chinese when the locale names one.
  • The script may be omitted even when a language normally uses a particular writing system.

Use Locale::getScript when you need to read a locale script subtag. Start with the first example, compare the second, and adapt the practical example to your inputs. Confirm the return value and environment requirements before adding it to production code.

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