How to Catch Multiple Exceptions in One Catch Clause in Java

Can I catch multiple Java exceptions in the same catch clause?

try {
    // Code that may throw exceptions
} catch (IllegalArgumentException | SecurityException | IllegalAccessException | NoSuchFieldException e) {
    someCode();
}

In Java, since version 7, you can catch multiple exceptions in a single catch block using the pipe (`|`) operator. This feature simplifies exception handling by reducing code redundancy and improving readability.

try {
    // Code that may throw exceptions
} catch (IllegalArgumentException | SecurityException | IllegalAccessException | NoSuchFieldException e) {
    someCode(); // Handle all exceptions here
}

Causes

• This is commonly needed when multiple exceptions share the same handling logic.
• Catching exceptions individually can lead to repetitive code.

Solutions

• Use the pipe character `|` to combine multiple exception types in a single catch clause.
• Remember to catch exceptions from the same hierarchy when using multi-catch.

Mistake: Combining unrelated exceptions that require different handling.

Solution: Ensure that the exceptions can be logically handled in the same way before combining.

Mistake: Not catching specific exceptions while attempting multi-catch.

Solution: Make sure to include all exceptions that may be thrown within the try block.

Mistake: Forgetting that multi-catch can affect exception order in finally blocks.

Solution: Be aware of the catch order if further handling in a finally block is necessary.