Why 'Array()' and not 'new Array()' in PHP?

Question

Other objects in PHP are instantiated using the new qualifier such as new Date(), etc. How come you do not supply the new qualfier with Array() when instantiating a new array in PHP?

$array = new Array(); //blows up
$array = Array();     //works as intended

$reflect = new ReflectionClass($this);   //works as intended
$reflect = ReflectionClass($this);       //blows up

Answer 1

Array is a language construct not a class so you cant use new to instantiate an Array object.

Answer 2

Because array is syntax, not a class. Same as with list, echo, and a few others.