When working with PHP, you may need to inspect the current ICU number formatting pattern. This guide explains the operation, shows what its arguments mean, and uses three separate examples to make the result easier to understand.
NumberFormatter::getPattern: The ICU pattern describes grouping, decimals and other presentation rules.
What Is NumberFormatter::getPattern in PHP?
Inspect the current ICU number formatting pattern. The ICU pattern describes grouping, decimals and other presentation rules.
Syntax:
$formatter->getPattern(): string|false
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: ICU formatting patterns are not printf format strings. They may be normalized by ICU.
Example 1: Basic Usage
This example introduces the operation with a short and predictable input.
<?php
$formatter = new NumberFormatter("en_US", NumberFormatter::DECIMAL);
echo $formatter->getPattern();
The code focuses on the main operation. The ICU pattern describes grouping, decimals and other presentation rules.
Example 2: Another Case
Now compare a different input, locale, date, or option to see another part of the behavior.
<?php
$formatter = new NumberFormatter("en_US", NumberFormatter::PATTERN_DECIMAL, "#,##0.00");
echo $formatter->getPattern();
What changes? ICU formatting patterns are not printf format strings. They may be normalized by ICU.
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
$formatter = new NumberFormatter("en_US", NumberFormatter::PATTERN_DECIMAL, "#,##0.000");
echo "Current pattern: " . $formatter->getPattern() . PHP_EOL;
echo $formatter->format(12.5);
The practical example demonstrates how to apply this operation to multiple values, a reusable task, or a validated input. The ICU pattern describes grouping, decimals and other presentation rules.
Important Behavior and Edge Cases
- Core behavior: The ICU pattern describes grouping, decimals and other presentation rules.
- Inputs and results: ICU formatting patterns are not printf format strings. They may be normalized by ICU.
- Alternatives: NumberFormatter::setPattern() updates the pattern.
- Compatibility: The intl extension is required.
Comparison With Related Functions
| Function or Approach | When to Use It |
|---|---|
NumberFormatter::getPattern | Inspect the current icu number formatting pattern. |
| Related PHP approach | NumberFormatter::setPattern() updates the pattern. |
Common Beginner Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|
| Using an incorrect input or option | ICU formatting patterns are not printf format strings. They may be normalized by ICU. |
| Confusing this API with a related operation | NumberFormatter::setPattern() updates the pattern. |
| Assuming output is identical across environments | Check return values and required extensions or versions. The intl extension is required. |
Key Takeaways
- NumberFormatter::getPattern helps you inspect the current ICU number formatting pattern.
- The ICU pattern describes grouping, decimals and other presentation rules.
- ICU formatting patterns are not printf format strings. They may be normalized by ICU.
Use NumberFormatter::getPattern when you need to inspect the current ICU number formatting pattern. 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.