Detecting right-to-left languages in WordPress with is_rtl
The is_rtl function is a part of WordPress core functions. Its primary role is to check if the current language in a WordPress site is written in a Right-To-Left (RTL) script. Languages such as Arabic, Hebrew, and Persian are written from right to left, and this function helps to determine if such languages are in use.
The function becomes beneficial when it comes to the design and layout of a WordPress site. For instance, it aids in adjusting the CSS styles and the overall site layout to accommodate the RTL text direction. This function is also useful in ensuring that the website’s user interface aligns correctly with the text direction of the current language.
The is_rtl function does not require any parameters to work. It simply checks the global $wp_locale object to see if the ‘text direction’ property is set to ‘rtl’. If the ‘text direction’ property is set to ‘rtl’, the function will return true; otherwise, it will return false.
It’s important to note that the is_rtl function only checks for the text direction of the current language. It does not change the text direction or perform any other actions on the website’s content or layout.
Parameters
The is_rtl function in WordPress does not accept any parameters.
Return Value
The is_rtl function returns a boolean value, indicating whether the locale is set to a right-to-left language or not.
Examples
Example 1: How to Use is_rtl Function to Apply RTL Stylesheet
The is_rtl() function is often used to determine whether the website’s text direction is set to right-to-left (RTL). This is particularly useful for applying stylesheets specifically designed for RTL languages. Here’s a code snippet that demonstrates this usage:
function theme_enqueue_styles() {
wp_enqueue_style( 'theme-style', get_stylesheet_uri() );
if ( is_rtl() ) {
wp_enqueue_style( 'theme-rtl', get_template_directory_uri() . '/rtl.css' );
}
}
add_action( 'wp_enqueue_scripts', 'theme_enqueue_styles' );
In the above code, the function theme_enqueue_styles() is hooked to the wp_enqueue_scripts action. This function first enqueues the main theme stylesheet using wp_enqueue_style(). Then, it checks if the text direction is RTL using the is_rtl() function. If it is, it enqueues an additional stylesheet designed for RTL text direction.
Example 2: How to Use is_rtl Function to Change Layout
The is_rtl() function can also be used to change the layout of the website based on the text direction. Here’s a code snippet that demonstrates this usage:
if ( is_rtl() ) {
get_sidebar( 'left' );
} else {
get_sidebar( 'right' );
}
In the above code, the is_rtl() function is used to determine which sidebar to display. If the text direction is RTL, the left sidebar is displayed. Otherwise, the right sidebar is displayed.
Conclusion
The is_rtl function is a WordPress function that checks if the current language is written in a right-to-left script. It returns true if the text direction of the current locale is right-to-left, otherwise false. This function can be used to adapt the layout and design of a website based on the text direction of the user’s language, providing a more intuitive and user-friendly interface for users who read in right-to-left languages like Arabic, Hebrew, or Persian.