PHP array_push: Add Elements to End of Array

In PHP, adding elements to the end of an array is a fundamental task easily accomplished using the built-in array_push() function. This article provides a direct guide on how to use array_push() to append one or multiple values to an existing array, explains its syntax, and highlights a common, faster alternative for adding single elements.

How array_push() Works

The array_push() function treats an array as a stack and pushes the passed variables onto the end of that array. The length of the array increases by the number of variables pushed.

Syntax

array_push(array &$array, mixed $value1, mixed $... = ?): int

• $array: The input array. This is passed by reference, meaning the function modifies the original array directly.
• $value1, $...: The values to push onto the end of the array.
• Return Value: Returns the new number of elements in the array.

Code Examples

1. Adding a Single Element

To add one element to the end of an array:

$fruits = ["apple", "banana"];
array_push($fruits, "cherry");

print_r($fruits);

Output:

Array
(
    [0] => apple
    [1] => banana
    [2] => cherry
)

2. Adding Multiple Elements

You can push multiple elements at once by passing them as additional arguments:

$colors = ["red", "green"];
array_push($colors, "blue", "yellow", "purple");

print_r($colors);

Output:

Array
(
    [0] => red
    [1] => green
    [2] => blue
    [3] => yellow
    [4] => purple
)

Alternative: Using the Square Bracket Syntax []

If you are only adding a single element to an array, it is recommended to use the square bracket syntax ($array[] = $value) instead of array_push(). This method is cleaner and faster because it does not have the overhead of calling a function.

$fruits = ["apple", "banana"];
$fruits[] = "cherry"; // Equivalent to array_push($fruits, "cherry")

Use array_push() primarily when you need to add multiple elements to an array at the same time.