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javamethodsparentheses

Java: When to use parenthesis after a method

When I use the method .length() I sometimes must use parenthesis and sometimes not. What is the rule for using this? For example:

        int[] secArray = {1, 2, 3};
    System.out.println(secArray[2]);
    System.out.println(secArray.length);

While here, I must use it: (capLetter is a string)

        System.out.println("Your name consists of " + capLetter.length() + " letters.");

I could not find any question nor answer about this. I am a beginner in Java, sorry if the question is ridiculous. Thanks in advance!

Solution

  • It depends on whether the object is implementing length as a field or a method.

    Array.length is a field.

    String.length() is a method

    List.size() is a method

    In java, you will see methods more often than fields. Arrays are a special case since they are part of core java.