Is it recommended to use variable variables for storing multidimensional array or object paths in PHP?

Using variable variables for storing multidimensional array or object paths in PHP is not recommended as it can lead to confusion and make the code harder to read and maintain. Instead, it is better to use alternative methods such as array or object accessors like brackets [] or -> to access specific elements within multidimensional arrays or objects. 

// Incorrect usage of variable variables for storing multidimensional array paths
$firstKey = 'foo';
$secondKey = 'bar';
$$firstKey[$secondKey] = 'value';

// Correct usage of array accessors for storing multidimensional array paths
$firstKey = 'foo';
$secondKey = 'bar';
$array[$firstKey][$secondKey] = 'value';

Keywords

variable variables multidimensional array object paths PHP recommended

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