How to Check if an Enum Contains a Constant by Name in Java?

Question

How can I check if a Java Enum contains a constant with a specified name?

public static boolean contains(String enumName) {
    for (MyEnum constant : MyEnum.values()) {
        if (constant.name().equals(enumName)) {
            return true;
        }
    }
    return false;
}

Answer

In Java, Enums are a powerful feature that allows you to define a set of named constants. Sometimes, you may need to check if an Enum contains a specific constant based on its name. This can be useful for validating input or ensuring that only specific values are processed in a program.

public static boolean contains(String enumName) {
    try {
        MyEnum.valueOf(enumName);
        return true;
    } catch (IllegalArgumentException e) {
        return false;
    }
}

Causes

  • Typo in the constant name when checking for existence.
  • Using incorrect Enum class type while performing the check.
  • Necessary imports missing or not having a proper package structure.

Solutions

  • Utilize the `Enum.valueOf()` method to check for existence of a constant.
  • Implement a custom method that iterates over the Enum values and matches against the provided name.
  • Consider using exception handling to catch invalid names when using `Enum.valueOf()`.

Common Mistakes

Mistake: Not using the correct case when checking enum names.

Solution: Enum names are case-sensitive; ensure that the casing of the string matches the Enum definition.

Mistake: Forgetting to handle potential exceptions when using `Enum.valueOf()`.

Solution: Always enclose `Enum.valueOf()` in a try-catch block to handle `IllegalArgumentException`.

Helpers

  • Java Enum
  • Check Enum Constant
  • Java Programming
  • Enum valueOf
  • Java Reflection Enum

Related Questions

⦿How Does Method Overloading Work in Objective-C?

Learn about method overloading in ObjectiveC its capabilities examples and common mistakes to avoid.

⦿How to Move Beyond the Factory Pattern in Python Using Advanced Techniques?

Explore advanced techniques to go beyond the factory design pattern in Python including dependency injection and builder patterns.

⦿How to Set a JLabel Background to Transparent in Java Swing?

Learn how to make a JLabel background transparent in Java Swing with expert tips and code samples.

⦿How to Continue Execution of a Java Program After an Exception is Thrown

Learn how to manage exceptions in Java to continue program execution seamlessly. Explore best practices and examples.

⦿How to Convert Time Zones in Java?

Learn how to effectively convert time zones in Java with clear examples and best practices. Discover common mistakes and debugging tips.

⦿How to Set Default Text in a JTextField in Java?

Learn how to set default placeholder text in a JTextField in Java Swing. Enhance user experience and input clarity with these tips.

⦿How to Extract the First Four Digits from an Integer in Java?

Learn how to effectively extract the first four digits from an integer in Java with code examples and explanations.

⦿How to Detect the Version of Your Application?

Learn effective methods to detect and manage application versions in your software project with expert tips and code examples.

⦿How to Access Injected Objects in a Spring Constructor?

Learn how to access injected objects within a constructor in Spring using dependency injection techniques.

⦿How to Resolve the JAX-WS SOAP Exception Regarding MustUnderstand Headers?

Learn how to troubleshoot the JAXWS SOAP exception related to MustUnderstand headers to ensure smooth web service communication.

© Copyright 2025 - CodingTechRoom.com