# CFCopyDescription(_:) Returns a textual description of a Core Foundation object. ``` func CFCopyDescription(_ cf: CFTypeRef!) -> CFString! ``` ## Parameters `cf` The CFType object (a generic reference of type [`CFTypeRef`](/documentation/CoreFoundation/CFTypeRef)) from which to derive a description. ## Return Value A string that contains a description of `cf`. Ownership follows the [The Create Rule](https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/documentation/CoreFoundation/Conceptual/CFMemoryMgmt/Concepts/Ownership.html#//apple_ref/doc/uid/20001148-103029). ## Discussion The nature of the description differs by object. For example, a description of a CFArray object would include descriptions of each of the elements in the collection. You can use this function for debugging Core Foundation objects in your code. Note, however, that the description for a given object may be different in different releases of the operating system. Do *not* create dependencies in your code on the content or format of the information returned by this function. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)