PHP How to cast variable to array?

To cast a variable to array in PHP, use the array casting syntax. This is useful when you need to ensure a variable is always an array type, regardless of its original data type.

Syntax

The basic syntax for casting to array is ?

$yourNewVariableName = (array)$yourVariableName;

Example with Array Variable

When casting an existing array, it remains unchanged ?

<?php
    $nameArray = array('Mike', 'Sam', 'David');
    $valueArray = (array)$nameArray;
    print_r($valueArray);
?>

Array
(
    [0] => Mike
    [1] => Sam
    [2] => David
)

Example with String Variable

Casting a string to array creates a single−element array ?

<?php
    $name = "John";
    $nameArray = (array)$name;
    print_r($nameArray);
?>

Array
(
    [0] => John
)

Example with Integer Variable

Integers are also converted to single−element arrays ?

<?php
    $number = 42;
    $numberArray = (array)$number;
    print_r($numberArray);
?>

Array
(
    [0] => 42
)

Conclusion

Array casting in PHP converts any variable type to an array. Existing arrays remain unchanged, while scalar values become single−element arrays with index 0.