How can the return value of a function be effectively utilized to improve code readability and maintainability in PHP?

When a function returns a value in PHP, it can be effectively utilized to improve code readability and maintainability by assigning the return value to a meaningful variable with a descriptive name. This makes it clear what the function is returning and how it will be used in the code. Additionally, using the return value directly in conditional statements or other operations can make the code more concise and easier to follow.

// Assigning the return value of a function to a variable for readability
$result = calculateTotal($quantity, $price);
echo "Total cost: $result";

// Using the return value directly in a conditional statement
if (is_valid($input)) {
    // Do something
}

// Using the return value in a loop
foreach (getItems() as $item) {
    // Process each item
}