VLENGTH

VLENGTH

Returns the compile-time (allocated) size of the specified variable

Category: Variable Information

Syntax

VLENGTH (var)

var

specifies a variable, expressed as a scalar or as an array reference.

Restriction:

You cannot use an expression as an argument.

LENGTH examines the variable at run-time, trimming trailing blanks to determine the length. VLENGTH returns a compile-time constant value, which reflects the maximum length.
VLENGTH returns the length of the specified variable. VLENGTHX, however, evaluates the argument to determine the variable name. The function then returns the compile-time size that is associated with that variable name.
VLENGTH does not accept an expression as an argument. VLENGTHX accepts expressions, but the value of the specified expression cannot denote an array reference.
Related functions return the value of other variable attributes, such as the variable name, informat, and format, among others. For a list, see the "Variable Information" functions in Functions and CALL Routines by Category .

SAS Statements Results

length x $8; x='abc'; y=vlength(x); z=length(x); put y=; put z=;

y=8 z=3

See Also

SAS Statements	Results
length x $8; x='abc'; y=vlength(x); z=length(x); put y=; put z=;	y=8 z=3

Functions:
"Variable Information" functions in Functions and CALL Routines by Category