Introduce with as an Alias for Namespace use Keyword

Author: 15892951523

RFC-with-alias-xiaoma.md

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+# Proposed by: [xiaoma]
+# Date: 2025-5-23
+
+# PHP RFC: Introduce `with` as an Alias for Namespace `use` Keyword
+
+## Proposal Background
+
+Currently in PHP, the `use` keyword serves two distinct purposes:
+1. **Namespace Importing**: Used to import/alias namespaces, classes, functions, and constants
+```php
+use Foo\Bar as Baz;
+use function Foo\hello as greet;
+```
+Closure Variable Capture: Used in anonymous functions to inherit variables from parent scope
+
+Problem Analysis
+
+Semantic Confusion: The namespace use actually performs "import/reference" operations, but its literal meaning suggests "usage", which may mislead beginners into thinking it performs file operations or immediate usage
+Learning Curve: Beginners often struggle with the dual meaning of use, requiring additional context explanation
+Language Consistency: Modern languages (Dart/Kotlin etc.) use more explicit terms like with or import
+
+Proposal
+
+Introduce with as a full alias for namespace-related use:
+
+```php
+with Foo\Bar as Baz;          // Equivalent to use Foo\Bar as Baz;
+with function Foo\hello;      // Equivalent to use function Foo\hello;
+```
+Benefits
+Clearer Semantics: with better conveys "reference/borrow" meaning, avoiding file operation misconceptions
+"with this namespace..." is more accurate than "use this namespace..."
+
+Zero-Cost Migration:
+
+Fully backward compatible, no changes required for existing code
+Developers can freely choose the more semantic keyword
+
+Beginner Friendly:
+
+Reduces cognitive load for newcomers, aligning with PHP's "easiest to learn" philosophy
+Language Evolution: Maintains PHP's modern image while respecting historical design
+
+Backward Compatibility
+
+No BC breaks: Pure syntactic sugar, no behavior changes
+
+No performance impact: Simple lexer mapping, no runtime overhead
+
+Toolchain compatibility: All static analysis tools work without modification
+Voting Suggestion
+
+Propose as a "Language Improvement" RFC requiring 2/3 majority.
+
+Example Comparison
+```php
+// Traditional syntax
+use Vendor\Package\ClassName;
+use function Vendor\Package\functionName;
+use const Vendor\Package\CONSTANT;
+
+// New syntax
+with Vendor\Package\ClassName;
+with function Vendor\Package\functionName;
+with const Vendor\Package\CONSTANT;
+```
+FAQ
+Q: Will use syntax be deprecated?
+
+A: No, this is an optional alias mechanism. use will be permanently supported.
+
+Q: Will closure use also get an alias?
+A: Not in scope of this proposal, keeping closure syntax stable.
+
+
+I know this may be an insignificant improvement, but I think it's necessary