In simple terms, it works like an if statement. The ternary operator has three parts (hence the name!) that look like this:

condition ? expression1 : expression2

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The condition is evaluated. If it it true then expression1 is returned, otherwise expression2 is returned. Here's a simple example:

$max = $x > $y ? $x : $y;

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The condition $x > $y is evaluated. If this is true then the operator returns $x, otherwise it returns $y. This could also be done using if like this:

if ($x > $y) {
  $max = $x;
} else {
  $max = $y;
}

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But in this case I think that the ternary operator looks more readable.

--
<http://www.dave.org.uk>

Perl Training in the UK <http://www.iterative-software.com>

In reply to Re: What does the ternary statement actually do? by davorg
in thread What does the ternary statement actually do? by Mr.T

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