Home  >  Article  >  Backend Development  >  When should I use `$model->relation()` vs. `$model->relation()` in Laravel Eloquent?

When should I use `$model->relation()` vs. `$model->relation()` in Laravel Eloquent?

Linda Hamilton
Linda HamiltonOriginal
2024-10-31 08:24:30348browse

When should I use  `$model->relation()` vs. `$model->relation()` in Laravel Eloquent? 
relation()` vs. `$model->relation()` in Laravel Eloquent? " />

Difference between Method Calls $model->relation(); and $model->relation in Eloquent

In Laravel's Eloquent ORM, understanding the distinction between $model->relation(); and $model->relation is crucial.

$model->relation()

Invoking $model->relation() directly calls the relationship function defined in the model. This function typically resembles:

<code class="php">public function distributors()
{
    return $this->hasMany('Distributor');
}</code>

By calling $store->distributors(), you obtain the return value of $this->hasMany('Distributor'), which is an instance of IlluminateDatabaseEloquentRelationsHasMany.

When to Utilize $model->relation(): This method is valuable when you need to tailor the relationship query further before executing it. For instance:

<code class="php">$distributors = $store->distributors()->where('priority', '>', 4)->get();</code>

Using $store->distributors()->get() is a simpler alternative, but it yields the same outcome.

$model->relation

Laravel employs a behind-the-scenes technique that enables direct access to relationship results as properties. Invoking $model->relation does not actually access an existing property. Instead, Laravel intercepts this call and routes it to __get().

This method ultimately calls getAttribute() with the property name ('distributors'), which proceeds to check if the relationship is cached ('relations' array). If not, and if a relationship method exists, it attempts to load it (getRelationshipFromMethod). Finally, the model retrieves the results from the relationship through getResults(), which executes the query.

In essence, $model->relation is equivalent to $model->relation()->get(), returning the results of the relationship directly.

Conclusion

  • $model->relation() returns the relationship object itself, allowing for further query customizations.
  • $model->relation directly retrieves the query results, providing a convenient shortcut.

Understanding this difference is vital for effective Eloquent usage.

The above is the detailed content of When should I use `$model->relation()` vs. `$model->relation()` in Laravel Eloquent?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

Statement:
The content of this article is voluntarily contributed by netizens, and the copyright belongs to the original author. This site does not assume corresponding legal responsibility. If you find any content suspected of plagiarism or infringement, please contact admin@php.cn