Can I learn php instead of JavaScript?

Answer 1

Definitely not. Php is for backend while JavaScript is for frontend. But you can use JavaScript frameworks for backend as well. Making JavaScript a lot more versatile and useful.
Tip: php is dying. Use node.js instead.

Answer 2

PHP is still very common but things have changed. But these days there are frameworks like Express.js which allow javascript to be used for backend as well as frontend.
The popularity of PHP is definitely going down in the Tiobe index.

Answer 3

I wouldnt suggest learning PHP instead of JavaScript. However you can build complete websites with either one or combine the two.

In the current landscape I would suggest keeping PHP on the backend, but it’s definetly an easy language to learn.

A good starting point could be to create some projects using only PHP, once you start getting the hang of it try tossing some JavaScript in there for interactivity.

When you feel savy enough and want more interraction, toss PHP on the backend for your Data Access Layer and go full ham on JavaScript, maybe even learn a Framework or two. Such as Angular, React, Svelte or Vue.

Brgds