CSS fallback properties
Written byPhuoc Nguyen
Created
06 Sep, 2022
A CSS class can consist of many declarations whose each of them has the syntax of
`property: value` syntax:css
.cls {
property: value;
}We can set different values for the same property. A value coming later overrides values before it. The browser will try to use the last declaration. In the case it can't recognize the declaration, it will fallback to the previous value until the supported value is found.
It is the right place to add prefixes for browser vendors here. Remember in the old days, we often use this technique to set a linear gradient for the header element:
css
.header {
background-image: url(/path/to/fallback-gradient.svg);
background-image: -webkit-gradient(...);
background-image: -webkit-linear-gradient(...);
background-image: -moz-linear-gradient(...);
background-image: -ms-linear-gradient(...);
background-image: -o-linear-gradient(...);
background-image: linear-gradient(...);
}Even though the specific
`linear-gradient()` function is supported in modern browsers, the technique is still useful in many cases. The following sample code reverts to CSS flexbox if CSS grid isn't supported:css
.list {
display: flex;
display: grid;
}
Questions? 🙋
Do you have any questions about front-end development? If so, feel free to create a new issue on GitHub using the button below. I'm happy to help with any topic you'd like to learn more about, even beyond what's covered in this post.
While I have a long list of upcoming topics, I'm always eager to prioritize your questions and ideas for future content. Let's learn and grow together! Sharing knowledge is the best way to elevate ourselves 🥷.
Recent posts ⚡
Newsletter 🔔
If you're into front-end technologies and you want to see more of the content I'm creating, then you might want to consider subscribing to my newsletter.
By subscribing, you'll be the first to know about new articles, products, and exclusive promotions.
Don't worry, I won't spam you. And if you ever change your mind, you can unsubscribe at any time.
Phước Nguyễn