What differences are there between the keys "->" and "::" in PHP?

Answer 1

The object operator, ->, is used in object scope to access methods and properties of an object. It’s meaning is to say that what is on the right of the operator is a member of the object instantiated into the variable on the left side of the operator. Instantiated is the key term here.

Sample:
// Create a new instance of MyObject into $obj
$obj = new MyObject();
// Set a property in the $obj object called thisProperty
$obj->thisProperty = 'Fred';
// Call a method of the $obj object named getProperty
$obj->getProperty();

The operator,::, The Scope Resolution Operator (also called Paamayim Nekudotayim) or in simpler terms, the double colon, is a token that allows access to static, constant, and overridden properties or methods of a class.

When referencing these items from outside the class definition, use the name of the class. As of PHP 5.3.0, it's possible to reference the class using a variable. The variable's value can not be a keyword (e.g. self, parent, and static). Paamayim Nekudotayim would, at first, seem like a strange choice for naming a double-colon. However, while writing the Zend Engine 0.5 (which powers PHP 3), that's what the Zend team decided to call it. It actually does mean double-colon - in Hebrew!

Sample Example:
https://code.sololearn.com/wr3RpwI2Jrke/#php

Answer 2

Thank you for detailed explanation 👍

I should mention that I got surprised 😮 after learning that a operator of a PHP is called as a Hebrew word 🙂

The point I mainly wanted to learn is why different operators are allocated for such similar referencing operations. For example, the both could be as "->". Why did the designers of this holy language differentiate them?

Answer 3

ArcturuS same here while I came to know abt that🤘 enjoy 😁

Answer 4

Yepp, PHP is funny 💫 I enjoy so much 👍🙂