How can I capture the result of var_dump to a string?

Question

I'd like to capture the output of var_dump to a string.

The PHP docs say

As with anything that outputs its result directly to the browser, the output-control functions can be used to capture the output of this function, and save it in a string (for example).

Can someone give me an example of how that might work?

print_r() isn't a valid possibility because it's not going to give me the information that I need.

Answer 1

Use output buffering:

<?php
ob_start();
var_dump($someVar);
$result = ob_get_clean();
?>

Answer 2

You could also do this:

$dump = print_r($variable, true);

Answer 3

You could also use var_export($var, true); -- but that probably won't give you all the information you need.

Answer 4

You may also try to use serialize() function, sometimes it very useful for debuging puprposes.

Answer 5

If you want to have a look at a variables contents during runtime, consider using a real debugger like XDebug. That way you don't need to mess up your source code and you can use a debugger even while normal users visit your application. They won't notice.