Use gettype() when you need to returns the PHP type name of a value as a string in a PHP application. The examples below show the actual operation and its limitations.
What Is gettype() in PHP?
Returns the PHP type name of a value as a string. The exact signature supported by your installation depends on its PHP version and enabled extensions.
Its syntax is:
gettype(mixed $value): stringParameters and return value: The parameter types, optional arguments, references, and return type are shown in the signature above. Optional parameters are marked with an ellipsis in this reference signature.
Example 1: Basic Usage
<?php
echo gettype(123);Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.
Example 2: Different Input or Behavior
<?php
echo gettype([1,2]);Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.
Practical Example: Applying the Function
<?php
$values = [null, true, 3.5, "text"]; foreach ($values as $value) echo gettype($value) . PHP_EOL;Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.
Important Behavior and Edge Cases
Type labels may be less specific than modern get_debug_type().
Comparison With Related Functions
| Approach | Difference |
|---|---|
gettype() | Returns the PHP type name of a value as a string. |
| Related operation | get_debug_type() gives detailed class names; gettype() reports broad PHP types. |
Common Beginner Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|
| Ignoring the function-specific limitation | Type labels may be less specific than modern get_debug_type(). |
| Confusing this function with a related operation | get_debug_type() gives detailed class names; gettype() reports broad PHP types. |
Key Takeaways
- Returns the PHP type name of a value as a string.
- Type labels may be less specific than modern get_debug_type().
- get_debug_type() gives detailed class names; gettype() reports broad PHP types.
Use gettype() for the specific operation demonstrated above. Check its prerequisites and handle failure conditions before using it with production data.