The difference between __() and _x() in WordPress

Both __() and _x() are both WordPress translation functions. The function _x() does the same thing as the function __() except the _x() function accepts an additional parameter ($context).

The $context parameter allows you to have the same string translated in different ways. For example the string “tear” could be two different words:

• a tear of sadness ran down my check
• they tear off part of the ticket when I go to the ballgame

Using __() you can have only one translation for the string “tear” but by using _x() you can have different translations based on context.

echo _x( 'tear', 'noun: comes out of your eye when crying', 'fe_recipe' );
echo _x( 'tear', 'verb: to pull apart by force', 'fe_recipe' );

Sal Ferrarello (@salcode)

Sal is a PHP developer with a focus on the WordPress platform. He is a conference speaker with a background including Piano Player, Radio DJ, Magician/Juggler, Beach Photographer, and High School Math Teacher. Sal can be found professionally at WebDevStudios, where he works as a senior backend engineer.