php equivalent for `command`

Is there a php equivalent for the use of (I think) in Unix/Perl? So for example echo "$x++`" would first evaluate $x++ and then print the resulting value. Euan Greig Technical Consultant BRANN DATA euan.greig@brann.com 01285 645997 ************************************************************************** Any opinions expressed in this email are those of the individual and not necessarily the Company. This email and any files transmitted with it, including replies and forwarded copies (which may contain alterations) subsequently transmitted from the Company, are confidential and solely for the use of the intended recipient. If you are not the intended recipient or the person responsible for delivering to the intended recipient, be advised that you have received this email in error and that any use is strictly prohibited. **************************************************************************