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javaoopinterfaceannotations

Should we @Override an interface's method implementation?

Should a method that implements an interface method be annotated with @Override?

The javadoc of the Override annotation says:

Indicates that a method declaration is intended to override a method declaration in a superclass. If a method is annotated with this annotation type but does not override a superclass method, compilers are required to generate an error message.

I don't think that an interface is technically a superclass. Or is it?

Question Elaboration

Solution

  • You should use @Override whenever possible. It prevents simple mistakes from being made. Example:

    class C {
    @Override
    public boolean equals(SomeClass obj){
        // code ...
    }
}

    This doesn't compile because it doesn't properly override public boolean equals(Object obj).

    The same will go for methods that implement an interface (1.6 and above only) or override a Super class's method.