Backend Development 3 min read

PHP copy() Function: Syntax, Parameters, Return Value, Example, and Usage Tips

This article explains PHP's copy() function, detailing its syntax, parameters, return values, example usage, and important precautions for safely copying files on the server, including handling of existing destination files, limitations with directories, and cross‑filesystem considerations.

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PHP copy() Function: Syntax, Parameters, Return Value, Example, and Usage Tips

PHP function copy() is used to copy a file from a source path to a destination path.

Syntax of copy() function:

<code>copy(string $source, string $destination, resource $context = null): bool</code>

Parameter description:

$source : Path of the source file, which can be a local file path or a URL.

$destination : Path of the destination file, which can be a local file path or a URL.

$context (optional): An optional context parameter used to specify additional options during the copy process.

Return value:

If the copy succeeds, it returns true ; otherwise it returns false .

Usage example:

<code>$source = '/path/to/source/file.txt';
$destination = '/path/to/destination/file.txt';

if (copy($source, $destination)) {
    echo "File copy succeeded!";
} else {
    echo "File copy failed!";
}
</code>

Precautions:

If the destination file already exists, copy() will overwrite the destination file.

copy() can only be used to copy files; it cannot be used to copy directories.

If the source and destination files are on different file systems, copy() may fail.

It is recommended to check whether the source and destination files exist and ensure you have sufficient permissions before using copy() .

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