Ternary Operator in Java

Last updated: June 11, 2024

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1. Overview

The ternary conditional operator ?: allows us to define expressions in Java. It’s a condensed form of the if-else statement that also returns a value.

In this tutorial, we’ll learn when and how to use a ternary construct. We’ll start by looking at its syntax and then explore its usage.

Further reading:

Control structures in java, if-else statement in java, how to use if/else logic in java 8 streams.

The ternary operator ?: in Java is the only operator that accepts three operands :

The very first operand must be a boolean expression, and the second and third operands can be any expression that returns some value. The ternary construct returns expression1 as an output if the first operand evaluates to true , expression2 otherwise.

3. Ternary Operator Example

Let’s consider this if-else construct:

Here we have assigned a value to msg based on the conditional evaluation of num .

We can make this code more readable and safe by easily replacing the if-else statement with a ternary construct:

4. Expression Evaluation

When using a Java ternary construct, only one of the right-hand side expressions, i.e. either expression1 or expression2 , is evaluated at runtime.

We can test that out by writing a simple JUnit test case:

Our boolean expression 12 > 10 always evaluates to true , so the value of exp2 remained as-is.

Similarly, let’s consider what happens for a false condition:

The value of exp1 remained untouched, and the value of exp2 was incremented by 1.

5. Nesting Ternary Operator

It’s possible for us to nest our ternary operator to any number of levels of our choice.

So, this construct is valid in Java:

To improve the readability of the above code, we can use braces () wherever necessary:

However , please note that it’s not recommended to use such deeply nested ternary constructs in the real world. This is because it makes the code less readable and difficult to maintain.

6. Conclusion

In this quick article, we learned about the ternary operator in Java. It isn’t possible to replace every if-else construct with a ternary operator. But it’s a great tool for some cases and makes our code much shorter and more readable.

As usual, the entire source code is available over on GitHub .

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There is also a short-hand if else , which is known as the ternary operator because it consists of three operands.

It can be used to replace multiple lines of code with a single line, and is most often used to replace simple if else statements:

Instead of writing:

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You can simply write:

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Insert the missing parts to complete the following "short hand if...else" statement:

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The Java ternary operator examples

Table of contents, solution: java ternary operator examples, general ternary operator syntax, more power: using the ternary operator on the right hand side of a java statement, java ternary operator test class.

Java FAQ: How do I use the Java ternary operator ?

Here’s an example of the Java ternary operator being used to assign the minimum (or maximum) value of two variables to a third variable, essentially replacing a Math.min(a,b) or Math.max(a,b) method call. This example assigns the minimum of two variables, a and b , to a third variable named minVal :

In this code, if the variable a is less than b , minVal is assigned the value of a ; otherwise, minVal is assigned the value of b . Note that the parentheses in this example are optional, so you can write that same statement like this:

I think the parentheses make the code a little easier to read, but again, they’re optional, so use whichever syntax you prefer.

You can take a similar approach to get the absolute value of a number, using code like this:

Given those examples, you can probably see that the general syntax of the ternary operator looks like this:

As described in the Oracle documentation (and with a minor change from me), this statement can be read as “If testCondition is true, assign the value of trueValue to result ; otherwise, assign the value of falseValue to result .”

Here are two more examples that demonstrate this very clearly. To show that all things don’t have to be int s, here’s an example using a float value:

and here’s an example using a String :

As shown in these examples, the testCondition can either be a simple boolean value, or it can be a statement that evaluates to a boolean value, like the (a < 0) statement shown earlier.

Finally, here’s one more example I just saw in the source code for an open source project named Abbot :

As Carl Summers wrote in the comments below, while the ternary operator can at times be a nice replacement for an if/then/else statement, the ternary operator may be at its most useful as an operator on the right hand side of a Java statement. Paraphrasing what Carl wrote:

The “IF (COND) THEN Statement(s) ELSE Statement(s)” construct is, itself, a statement . The “COND ? Statement : Statement” construct, however, is an expression , and therefore it can sit on the right-hand side (rhs) of an assignment.

Carl then shared the following nice examples. Here’s his first example, where he showed that the ternary operator can be used to avoid replicating a call to a function with a lot of parameters:

Next, here’s an example where the conditional operator is embedded into a String , essentially used to construct the String properly depending on whether x is singular or plural:

And finally, here’s one more of his examples, showing a similar operation within a String , this time to print the salutation properly for a person’s gender:

(Many thanks to Carl Summers for these comments. He initially shared them as comments below, and I moved them up to this section.)

As a final note, here’s the source code for a Java class that I used to test some of the examples shown in this tutorial:

If you’re not familiar with it, the Java ternary operator let's you assign a value to a variable based on a boolean expression — either a boolean field, or a statement that evaluates to a boolean result. At its most basic, the ternary operator, also known as the conditional operator , can be used as an alternative to the Java if/then/else syntax, but it goes beyond that, and can even be used on the right hand side of Java statements.

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In Java, a ternary operator can be used to replace the if…else statement in certain situations. Before you learn about the ternary operator, make sure you visit Java if...else statement .

  • Ternary Operator in Java

A ternary operator evaluates the test condition and executes a block of code based on the result of the condition.

Its syntax is:

Here, condition is evaluated and

  • if condition is true , expression1 is executed.
  • And, if condition is false , expression2 is executed.

The ternary operator takes 3 operands ( condition , expression1 , and expression2 ). Hence, the name ternary operator .

Example: Java Ternary Operator

Suppose the user enters 75 . Then, the condition marks > 40 evaluates to true . Hence, the first expression "pass" is assigned to result .

Now, suppose the user enters 24 . Then, the condition marks > 40 evaluates to false . Hence, the second expression "fail" is assigned to result .

Note : To learn about expression, visit Java Expressions .

  • When to use the Ternary Operator?

In Java, the ternary operator can be used to replace certain types of if...else statements. For example,

You can replace this code

Here, both programs give the same output. However, the use of the ternary operator makes our code more readable and clean.

Note : You should only use the ternary operator if the resulting statement is short.

  • Nested Ternary Operators

It is also possible to use one ternary operator inside another ternary operator. It is called the nested ternary operator in Java.

Here's a program to find the largest of 3 numbers using the nested ternary operator.

In the above example, notice the use of the ternary operator,

  • (n1 >= n2) - first test condition that checks if n1 is greater than n2
  • (n1 >= n3) - second test condition that is executed if the first condition is true
  • (n2 >= n3) - third test condition that is executed if the first condition is false

Note : It is not recommended to use nested ternary operators. This is because it makes our code more complex.

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Java Ternary Operator with examples

Java Ternary Operator

The Java ternary operator allows you to build a single-line if statement. True or false can be the result of a ternary operator. Whether the statement evaluates to true or false, it returns a certain result.

Operators are the fundamental building blocks of all programming languages. Java, too, has a variety of operators that can be used to accomplish various calculations and functions, whether logical, arithmetic, relational or otherwise. They are categorized according to the features they offer. Here are several examples:

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This article covers everything there is to know about Arithmetic Operators.

There are three parts to the definition of ternary. Three operands make up the ternary operator (?:). Boolean expressions are evaluated with it. The operator chooses which value to assign to the variable. It’s the only conditional operator that takes three arguments. It can take the place of an if-else expression. It simplifies, simplifies, and simplifies the code. A ternary operator cannot be used to replace any code that uses an if-else statement.

Operator Ternary

The only conditional operator in Java that takes three operands is the ternary operator. It’s a one-liner substitute for the if-then-else statement commonly used in Java. We can use the ternary operator instead of if-else conditions or nested ternary operators to swap conditions.

Although the conditional operator follows the same algorithm as the if-else statement, it takes up less space and aids in the shortest possible writing of if-else statements.

The ternary operator syntax is as follows:

Its expression works the same way as the if-else statement in that Second_Expression is executed if First_Expression is true and Third_Expression is executed if First_Expression is false.

Below is a simple demonstration of Java’s ternary operator.

When should the Ternary Operator be used?

The ternary operator in Java can be used to replace some if…else sentences. For instance, the following code can be changed as follows.

Both programs give the same result in this case. On the other hand, the ternary operator makes our code more legible and tidy. Note that the ternary operator should only be used if the resulting sentence is brief.

Nesting the Ternary Operators in Java

One ternary operator can also be used inside another ternary operator. In Java, it’s known as the nested ternary operator. Here’s a program that uses the nested ternary operator to discover the largest of three numbers.

Notice how the ternary operator is used in the preceding example.

( numVarOne >= numVarTwo) is the initial test condition, determining whether numVarOne is bigger than numVarTwo. In case the beginning condition is correct, the second test condition ( numVarOne >= numVarThree) is executed. Further, upon the beginning condition being false, the third test condition (numVarTwo >= numVarThree) is run. Note that nested ternary operators are not recommended. This is because it complicates our coding.

Evaluation of Expression

Only one of the right-hand side expressions, expression1 or expression2, is evaluated at runtime when employing a Java ternary construct. A simple JUnit test case may be used to verify this:

Because our boolean statement 23 > 21 is always true, the value of varExp2 stayed unchanged. Consider what occurs in the case of a false condition:

The value of varExp1 was not changed, but the value of varExp2 was raised by one.

Null Check using Ternary Operator

Before attempting to invoke an object’s method, you can use the Java ternary operator as a shorthand for null checks. Consider the following scenario:

Both of these code examples, as you can see, avoid calling objects. If the object reference is null, object.getValue() is called, although the first code sample is a little shorter and more elegant.

Max Function using Ternary Operator

Using a Java ternary operator, you may obtain the same capability as the Java Math max() function. Here’s an example of utilizing a Java ternary operator to achieve the Math.max() functionality:

Take note of how the ternary operator conditions check whether varNumOne is greater than or equal to varNumTwo. The ternary operator returns the value varNumOne if it is true. Otherwise, the varNumTwo value is returned.

Min Function using Ternary Operator

To get the same result as the Java Math min() function, utilize the Java ternary operator. Here’s an example of utilizing a Java ternary operator to achieve the Math.min() functionality:

Notice how the ternary operator conditions check to see if varNumOne is less than or equal to varNumTwo. The ternary operator returns the value varNumOne if it is true. Otherwise, the varNumTwo value is returned.

Abs Function using Ternary Operator

The Abs function effect is achievable through Java’s ternary operator as with the Java Math abs() method. Here’s an example of utilizing a Java ternary operator to achieve the Math.abs() functionality:

Take note of how the ternary operator examines if varNumOne is greater than or equal to 0.

The ternary operator returns the value varNumOne if it is true. Otherwise, it returns -varNumOne, which negates a negative value and makes it positive.

Example: Nesting Ternary Operator

It’s feasible to nest our ternary operator to any number of levels we choose. In Java, this construct is valid:

Please keep in mind that such deeply nested ternary structures are not advised in the actual world. This is due to the fact that it makes the code less legible and maintainable.

Example: Program for finding the largest among two numbers using Java’s ternary operator

Example: code for illustrating java’s ternary operator, example: java’s ternary operator, example: ternary operator demo in java, example: determine the largest number using a ternary operator in java.

With the help of examples, you have learned about the ternary operator and how to utilize it in Java in this tutorial. In some cases, a ternary operator can be used instead of an if…else statement in Java. We also used an example to show the Java if…else statement before diving into the ternary operator. In addition, the test condition is evaluated by a ternary operator, which then executes a block of code based on the outcome.

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Ternary Operator in Java: An If…Else Shorthand Guide

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Ever felt like you’re wrestling with the ternary operator in Java? You’re not alone. Many developers find the ternary operator a bit daunting. Think of the ternary operator as a traffic signal – it directs the flow of your code based on certain conditions, making it a powerful tool in your Java toolkit.

The ternary operator is a shorthand for an if-else statement in Java. It takes three operands: a condition, a value if the condition is true, and a value if the condition is false. This operator can be a bit tricky to master, but once you do, it can make your code more concise and readable.

In this guide, we’ll help you understand and master the use of the ternary operator in Java , from its basic use to more advanced scenarios. We’ll cover everything from how the operator works, its advantages, potential pitfalls, to more complex uses such as nested ternary operations. We’ll also explore alternative approaches and provide tips for best practices and optimization.

So, let’s dive in and start mastering the ternary operator in Java!

TL;DR: What is the Ternary Operator in Java?

The ternary operator in Java is a concise way to perform conditional operations, defined by three operands: a condition, a value if the condition is true, and a value if the condition is false. Formatted with the syntax, dataType variableName = condition ? value_if_true : value_if_false; It’s main use is as shorthand for an if-else statement:

Here’s a simple example:

In this example, the condition is 10 > 5 . Since this condition is true, the ternary operator returns the second operand 1 , and assigns it to the variable result . If the condition was false, it would return the third operand 0 .

This is just a basic use of the ternary operator in Java. There’s much more to learn about this versatile operator, including its advanced usage and alternatives. Continue reading for a deeper dive.

Table of Contents

Java Ternary Operator: The Basics

Advanced usage: nested ternary operators in java, alternative approaches to the ternary operator, troubleshooting java’s ternary operator, understanding java operators and control flow, applying the ternary operator in larger projects, wrapping up.

The ternary operator in Java is a simple and efficient way to perform conditional operations. It’s a compact version of the if-else statement, and is often used to make code more concise and readable.

The ternary operator takes three operands: a condition to check, a result for when the condition is true, and a result for when the condition is false.

Here’s the basic syntax:

Let’s break down a simple example:

In this example, the condition is number > 10 . The ternary operator checks if this condition is true. Since 15 is indeed greater than 10 , the operator returns the second operand ( "Greater than ten" ), and assigns it to the variable result . If number was less than or equal to 10 , it would return the third operand ( "Less than or equal to ten" ).

The ternary operator offers a more concise way to write if-else statements, making your code easier to read and write. However, it’s important to use this operator wisely. Overuse can lead to code that’s difficult to understand and maintain. Always prioritize readability and simplicity over brevity.

As you become more comfortable with the ternary operator, you might start to explore more complex uses, such as nested ternary operations . A nested ternary operation is when a ternary operator is used within another ternary operator.

Here’s an example of a nested ternary operation:

In this example, if the first condition number > 10 is true, it checks another condition number > 20 . If this second condition is also true, it returns "Greater than twenty" . If the second condition is false (but the first is true), it returns "Between ten and twenty" . If the first condition is false, it returns "Less than or equal to ten" .

While nested ternary operations can be powerful, they can also make your code more complex and harder to read. It’s important to use nested ternary operations sparingly and only when it improves the readability or efficiency of your code.

Remember, the key to using the ternary operator effectively is to balance brevity with readability. Always strive to write code that’s easy to understand and maintain.

While the ternary operator is a powerful tool in Java, it’s not the only way to handle conditional logic. In fact, more traditional control flow structures like if-else statements and switch statements can often accomplish the same tasks. Understanding these alternatives is crucial for writing clean, readable, and efficient code.

The Traditional If-Else Statement

The if-else statement is the most straightforward way to handle conditional logic in Java. It’s more verbose than the ternary operator, but it can be easier to read, especially for complex conditions.

Here’s how you might rewrite our previous example using an if-else statement:

In this example, the code is longer and more verbose, but it’s also arguably easier to understand at a glance. This is particularly true for cases with complex or nested conditions.

The Switch Statement

The switch statement is another alternative to the ternary operator, particularly when dealing with multiple conditions. While it can’t directly replace the ternary operator, it’s a useful tool to have in your toolkit.

Here’s an example:

In this example, the switch statement checks if number is 10 or 20 . If number is neither 10 nor 20 , it defaults to the default case.

While the ternary operator is a powerful and concise way to handle conditional logic in Java, it’s not always the best tool for the job. Understanding when to use the ternary operator, and when to use alternatives like if-else or switch statements, is a key skill for any Java developer.

While the ternary operator in Java is quite handy, it’s not without its challenges. It’s essential to understand common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Misunderstanding Operator Precedence

One common issue arises from misunderstanding operator precedence. The ternary operator has lower precedence than most other operators, which can lead to unexpected results.

Consider the following example:

At first glance, you might expect result to be 2 when number is 5 . But because the addition operator has higher precedence than the ternary operator, 0 + 1 is evaluated first, leading to a result of 1 .

To avoid this, use parentheses to make your intentions clear:

Overusing Nested Ternary Operators

While nested ternary operators can be powerful, overusing them can lead to code that’s hard to read and debug. If you find yourself nesting multiple ternary operators, consider using traditional if-else statements or switch statements instead.

Ignoring Readability

Remember, the main purpose of the ternary operator is to make your code more concise and readable. If using the ternary operator makes your code harder to understand, it’s better to stick with if-else statements.

In conclusion, while the ternary operator can be a powerful tool in your Java toolkit, it’s important to use it wisely. Always consider the readability and maintainability of your code, and don’t be afraid to use alternative approaches when they’re more suitable.

To fully grasp the ternary operator’s power and utility, it’s essential to understand the broader concepts of operators and control flow in Java.

Operators in Java

In Java, an operator is a special symbol that performs specific operations on one, two, or three operands, and then returns a result. The basic types of operators in Java include arithmetic, relational, bitwise, logical, and assignment operators.

The ternary operator falls under the category of conditional operators, which perform different computations depending on whether a programmer-specified boolean condition evaluates to true or false.

Control Flow in Java

Control flow, or flow of control, refers to the order in which the individual statements, instructions, or function calls of an imperative or a declarative program are executed or evaluated.

In Java, control flow statements break up the flow of execution by employing decision making, looping, and branching, enabling your program to conditionally execute particular blocks of code.

Here’s a simple example of control flow using an if-else statement:

In this example, the control flow of the program is determined by the if-else statement. If the condition number > 5 is true, the program outputs "Number is greater than 5" . Otherwise, it outputs "Number is less than or equal to 5" .

Understanding operators and control flow is fundamental to mastering the ternary operator and other advanced features in Java. With this foundation, you’ll be better equipped to write efficient, readable, and maintainable code.

The ternary operator’s real power shines when it’s used in larger programs or projects. It can help make your code more concise and readable, especially when dealing with complex conditional logic.

Consider a large program that involves multiple conditions. Using traditional if-else statements could result in verbose and hard-to-read code. In such cases, the ternary operator can be a valuable tool for writing cleaner and more maintainable code.

However, as with any tool, it’s important to use the ternary operator wisely. Overusing the ternary operator, especially nested ternary operations, can make your code more complex and harder to debug. Always strive to balance brevity with readability.

Related Topics to Explore

The ternary operator often goes hand in hand with other concepts in Java. Here are a few related topics that you might find interesting:

  • Control Flow in Java : The ternary operator is a part of Java’s control flow. Understanding other control flow structures, like loops and switch statements, can help you write more efficient and readable code.

Java Operators : The ternary operator is just one of many operators in Java. Learning about other operators, like arithmetic, relational, and logical operators, can deepen your understanding of Java.

Java Best Practices : Writing clean, efficient, and maintainable code is a key skill for any Java developer. Learning about Java best practices, including when and how to use the ternary operator, can help you become a better programmer.

Further Resources for Mastering Java’s Ternary Operator

Here are some additional resources that provide more in-depth information about the ternary operator and related topics:

  • Java Operator Mastery Simplified – Explore Java’s arithmetic operators for mathematical calculations.

The Not Equals Operator in Java – Understand how “!=” differs from the "==" operator in Java for inequality comparison.

Exploring || Operator Usage – Understand how the “||” operator evaluates to true if at least one of the operands is true.

Java Ternary Operator – Direct from Oracle, this is an official guide to Java’s ternary operator.

Java Operators – W3Schools provides an extensive overview of the different operators in Java.

Java Ternary Operator Guide – GeeksforGeeks offers a practical guide to using the ternary operator in Java.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ve delved deep into the world of Java’s ternary operator, a versatile tool for handling conditional logic in your code.

We started with the basics, understanding how the ternary operator works and how to use it in simple scenarios. We then delved into more complex uses, exploring nested ternary operations and how they can make your code more concise. Along the way, we tackled common challenges and pitfalls when using the ternary operator and provided solutions to help you write cleaner, more efficient code.

We also explored alternative approaches to handling conditional logic, comparing the ternary operator with traditional if-else and switch statements. Here’s a quick comparison of these methods:

MethodConcisenessReadabilityComplexity
Ternary OperatorHighModerateModerate
If-Else StatementLowHighLow
Switch StatementModerateHighModerate

Whether you’re just starting out with Java or you’re looking to level up your skills, we hope this guide has given you a deeper understanding of the ternary operator and its applications.

With its balance of conciseness and flexibility, the ternary operator is a powerful tool in any Java developer’s toolkit. Use it wisely, and it can help you write cleaner, more efficient code. Happy coding!

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Ternary Operator in Java with Examples: Ternary Operator vs. if...else Statement

Ternary Operator in Java with Examples: Ternary Operator vs. if...else Statement

java ternary operator with assignment

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Ternary operator in java.

Ternary Operator in Java takes three operands, evaluates the condition, and returns the result. It is also known as the conditional operator.

In this Java Tutorial , we'll explore the syntax along with practical examples and advantages of the Ternary Operator . We'll also understand the ternary operator vs. if...else statement in Java

What is a Ternary Operator in Java?

In Java, the ternary operator, also known as the conditional operator, is a shorthand way of writing an if-else statement . It makes code more concise and readable by evaluating a Boolean expression and returning one of two values based on the evaluation result.

What is a Ternary Operator in Java?

Syntax of Ternary Operator in Java

  • Condition: It denotes the condition specified in an if statement.
  • Expression1: If the condition is met, this expression will be saved in the Variable .
  • Expression2: If the condition is false, this expression will be saved in the variable.
  • It stores the result returned by either expression in a variable.

Flowchart of Ternary Operation

Flowchart of Ternary Operation

Examples Illustrating Ternary Operator in Java

Example 1: finding the greatest of two numbers, explanation.

In this specific example, the code determines the maximum value between x and y using the ternary operator and then prints the result to the console. The output on execution in the Java Compiler will be "The maximum of 10 and 20 is: 20," as the value of y (20) is greater than the value of x (10).

Example 2: Checking odd/even numbers

The TernaryOperatorExample class in Java demonstrates the usage of the ternary operator to determine whether a given number is even or odd. The main method initializes two integer variables, x, and y, with values 10 and 11, respectively. It then uses the ternary operator to assign a corresponding message based on whether the number is even or odd.

Ternary Operator Vs. if...else Statement in Java

The ternary operator may sometimes be used to replace multiple lines of code with a single line. It is often used to replace simple if-else statements. By reducing the length of your program, the ternary operator enhances code readability.

The above code checks whether a number is divisible by 5 with the help of an if-else statement.

We can use the ternary operator to perform the same operation.

If we compare the above two codes, we can see that the code using the ternary operator looks more readable and short than the one using if-else.

The ternary operator can be used to check any condition using a single if-else statement. However, you can choose what to select.

Use of Ternary Operator in Java

The ternary operator in Java is a concise and powerful tool used for conditional expressions. Its primary purpose is to simplify the syntax of certain if-else statements, making code more compact and often improving readability. Here are some common use cases for the ternary operator in Java:

1. Conditional Assignment

This example illustrates how the ternary operator provides a concise way to conditionally assign a value based on a boolean expression, making the code more readable and succinct for simple conditional assignments.

2. Inline Printing

By using the ternary operator to determine and print a weather description based on the temperature. The main method initializes an integer variable temperature with a value of 25. The ternary operator is then employed within a System.out.println statement to decide whether the weather is "warm" or "cold" based on the condition (temperature > 20).

3. Nested Ternary Operators

This example in our Java Online Editor demonstrates the use of nested ternary operators to efficiently find the minimum value among three numbers in a single line of code. While nested ternary operators can be powerful, it's important to use them with caution to maintain code readability.

Advantages of Java Ternary Operator

  • Code Conciseness: Ternary operators reduce the amount of code required for simple conditional assignments.
  • Improved Readability: In certain cases, the ternary operator can make the code more readable, especially when dealing with short conditional expressions.
  • Inline Usage: Ternary operators can be used inline, making code more compact and reducing the need for additional lines.

The ternary operator in Java is a powerful tool for simplifying conditional expressions. While it offers conciseness and readability advantages, it should be utilized with caution to maintain code clarity. 

Q1. Can the ternary operator be nested?

Q2. are there any performance differences between the ternary operator and if-else statements, q3. can the ternary operator handle multiple conditions, live classes schedule.

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In Java, the is a type of Java conditional operator. In this section, we will discuss the with proper examples.

The meaning of is composed of three parts. The consists of three operands. It is used to evaluate Boolean expressions. The operator decides which value will be assigned to the variable. It is the only conditional operator that accepts three operands. It can be used instead of the if-else statement. It makes the code much more easy, readable, and shorter.

The above statement states that if the condition returns gets executed, else the gets executed and the final result stored in a variable.

Let's see another example that evaluates the largest of three numbers using the ternary operator.

In the above program, we have taken three variables x, y, and z having the values 69, 89, and 79, respectively. The expression evaluates the largest number among three numbers and store the final result in the variable largestNumber. Let's understand the execution order of the expression.

. If it returns true the expression gets executed, else the expression gets executed.

When the expression gets executed, it further checks the condition . If the condition returns true the value of x is returned, else the value of z is returned.

When the expression gets executed it further checks the condition . If the condition returns true the value of y is returned, else the value of z is returned.

Therefore, we get the largest of three numbers using the ternary operator.





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Ternary operator in java.

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Last Updated on October 16, 2023 by Ankit Kochar

java ternary operator with assignment

The Ternary Operator in Java offers a more concise and compact approach to implementing straightforward if-else conditions within a single line of code. Let’s delve into a comprehensive exploration of this operator. A prerequisite for understanding this topic is a familiarity with "If-Else" conditions in Java. So, we are now starting with the definition and syntax of Ternary Operator in Java.

What is Ternary Operator in Java?

Ternary Operator in Java is a shorthand way of writing if-else conditions in Java. In Java, the exclusive conditional operator that accommodates three operands is known as the "ternary operator." It serves as a succinct alternative to the traditional if-then-else statement commonly employed in Java programming. The ternary operator can be leveraged either in place of if-else conditions or in the form of nested ternary operators to rearrange conditions. While it adheres to the same underlying logic as an if-else statement, the ternary operator boasts a compact syntax that promotes more concise code and streamlines the construction of if-else statements.

Syntax of Ternary Operator in Java

java ternary operator with assignment

The above expression will get executed as:

Flowchart of Ternary Operator in Java

Here is a simple flowchart, representing the use of Ternary Operator in Java.

java ternary operator with assignment

If Expression1 is true, then Expression2 will be executed, else Expression3 is executed.

Examples of Ternary Operator in Java

Here are some of the examples of Ternary Operator in Java, which are showing the various uses of Ternary Operator

Example 1: Using Ternary Operator as an alternative to “if-else” Statement in Java The ternary operator in Java can be used as an alternative to the if-else statement for simple cases. The syntax for using the ternary operator in this way is:

Here, expression is the expression being evaluated, and result1 is the value that will be returned if the expression is true, and result2 is the value that will be returned if the expression is false.

Here is an example of using the ternary operator as an alternative to the if-else statement:

As you can see, the ternary operator can be used as a compact and concise alternative to the if-else statement.

Example 2: Using Ternary Operator as an alternative to “if-else-if” Statement in Java The ternary operator in Java can be used as an alternative to the if-else-if statement for simple cases. The syntax for using the ternary operator in this way is:

Here, expression1 is the expression being evaluated, and value1, value2, value3 are the possible values it can take. result1, result2, result3 are the values that will be returned if the corresponding value is matched, and defaultResult is the value that will be returned if none of the values are matched.

Here is an example of using the ternary operator as an alternative to the if-else-if statement:

As you can see, the ternary operator in java can be used as a compact and concise alternative to the if-else-if statement, but it should only be used for simple cases where the conditions and expressions are relatively straightforward. For complex cases, it is better to use the traditional if-else-if statement to avoid making the code harder to understand and maintain.

Example 3: Using Ternary Operator as an alternative to “Switch-Case” Statement in Java The ternary operator in Java can be used as an alternative to the switch-case statement for simple cases. The syntax for using the ternary operator in this way is as given below:

Here is an example of using the ternary operator as an alternative to a switch-case statement:

As you can see, the ternary operator in java can be used as a compact and concise alternative to the switch-case statement in the above example for displaying the day of the week, but it should only be used for simple cases where the conditions and expressions are relatively straightforward.

Nesting Ternary Operator in Java

In Java, you can nest ternary operators to create more complex conditional expressions. As studied above, A ternary operator in java is a shorthand way of writing an if-else statement, and has the following syntax:

To nest ternary operators, you can simply include another ternary operator as the “valueIfTrue” or “valueIfFalse”. Here’s an example of how you could use nested ternary operators to conditionally assign a value to a variable:

In this example, the outer ternary operator compares x and y. If x is greater than y, the inner ternary operator is evaluated, comparing x and z. If x is greater than z, x is assigned to result, otherwise z is assigned. If x is not greater than y, the inner ternary operator is evaluated, comparing y and z. If y is greater than z, y is assigned to result, otherwise z is assigned.

Note: Although, nested ternary operators can be useful in some cases, they can also make code more complex and harder to read. If you find that your code is becoming too complex to understand using nested ternary operators, it may be better to use an if-else statement instead.

Advantages of Ternary Operator in Java

The ternary operator in Java has many advantages, including

  • Conciseness: Ternary operators allow you to condense simple if-else conditions into a single line of code, reducing code verbosity and enhancing readability.
  • Improved Readability: For straightforward conditions, ternary operators can enhance code readability by presenting the logic more compactly and directly.
  • Reduced Code Volume: Using ternary operators can lead to smaller and more streamlined code files, which are easier to maintain.
  • Ease of Assignment: Ternary operators can be used for assigning values to variables based on conditions, making code for variable initialization more concise.
  • Enhanced Expressiveness: Ternary operators provide a way to express conditional logic more explicitly, making it clear that a particular line of code represents a conditional assignment.
  • Faster Execution: In some cases, the ternary operator may execute faster than its equivalent if-else statement because it evaluates the condition directly.
  • Functional Programming: Ternary operators align with the principles of functional programming, where concise and expressive code is encouraged.

Disadvantages of Ternary Operator in Java

Along with several advantages, the ternary operator in Java also have some disadvantages. These disadvantages are listed below:

  • Limited Complexity: Ternary operators are best suited for simple conditional assignments. Complex conditions may become convoluted and challenging to read when expressed using ternary operators.
  • Reduced Readability: In some cases, ternary operators can reduce code readability, especially when nested multiple times or used with lengthy expressions. Complex ternary expressions can be challenging to understand, leading to maintenance difficulties.
  • Limited Handling of Side Effects: Ternary operators are not well-suited for handling side effects, such as modifying multiple variables or executing multiple statements within different branches of the condition. If you need to perform multiple actions based on a condition, if-else statements are generally more appropriate.
  • Inability to Execute Multiple Statements: Unlike if-else statements, which can execute multiple statements within each branch, ternary operators can only handle single expressions in each branch. This limitation can hinder code organization and maintainability.
  • Potential for Error: Ternary operators can lead to errors if not used carefully. Mistakes in the syntax, such as missing parentheses or incorrect placement of the "?" and ":" symbols, can result in unexpected behavior.
  • Difficulty in Debugging: Debugging code that heavily relies on ternary operators can be more challenging due to the absence of clear branching points. Debugging tools may not provide as much visibility into ternary expressions as they do for if-else statements.

Conclusion The Ternary operator in Java is a powerful tool for writing concise and expressive code when dealing with simple conditional assignments. It offers advantages such as compactness, improved readability for straightforward conditions, and efficient code. However, it should be used judiciously and avoided for complex conditions to maintain code clarity and readability.

FAQs related to Ternary Operator in Java:

Here are some FAQs related to Ternary Operator in Java.

1. What is the syntax of the ternary operator in Java? Answer: The syntax is condition ? expression_if_true : expression_if_false.

2. When should I use the ternary operator over if-else statements in Java? Answer: Use the ternary operator for simple conditional assignments that can be expressed concisely in a single line. If-else statements are more suitable for complex conditions or when multiple actions are required based on the condition.

3. Can I nest ternary operators in Java? Answer: Yes, you can nest ternary operators, but it’s generally discouraged for complex nesting because it can reduce code readability. Nested if-else statements are often a better choice for complex logic.

4. Are there any limitations to using the ternary operator in Java? Answer: Yes, the ternary operator is limited in handling complex conditions, multiple actions, and side effects. It may also reduce code readability when used excessively.

5. Is there a difference in performance between the ternary operator and if-else statements in Java? Answer: In most cases, the difference in performance is negligible. The choice between the ternary operator and if-else statements should primarily be based on code readability and maintainability.

6. Can I use the ternary operator to replace if-else statements entirely in my Java code? Answer: While the ternary operator can replace simple if-else conditions, it is not a suitable replacement for all if-else statements. Complex conditions and situations requiring multiple actions should still use if-else statements.

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Java Ternary Operator With Examples

Java Developers

Introduction

A ternary operator is not a new thing for programmers. It is part of the syntax for basic  conditional expressions  in almost every modern programming language. We commonly refer to it as the conditional operator, inline if (iif), or ternary if. It works similar to the If-conditional statement but it is a single-line statement. Let’s discuss the ternary operator in java with some examples.

Table of Contents

Ternary operator in Java

The  ternary operator in Java is a part of conditional statements. As the name ternary suggests, it is the only operator in Java that consists of three operands. The Java ternary operator can be thought of as a simplified version of the if-else statement with a value to be returned. It consists of a Boolean condition that evaluates to either true or false, along with a value that would be returned if the condition is true and another value if the condition is false.

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Syntax of the ternary operator in Java

The syntax of the java ternary operator includes two symbols, “?” and ”:” See this line of code below:

The variable var1 on the left-hand side of the = (assignment) operator will be assigned, value1 if the Boolean expression evaluates to true or value2 if the Boolean expression evaluates to false.

See this Java code example for checking if the integer is even or odd, first using a simple if-else statement then using a ternary operator in Java.

Using if-else statement:

Now the same functionality using the ternary operator in Java:

Ternary operator condition

The condition part of the above ternary operator expression is this part:

The condition is a Java expression that evaluates to either true or false. The above condition will evaluate to true if the num is completely divisible by 2, which means it is an even number or false if it is not.

The condition can only be a Java expression that evaluates to a Boolean value, just like the expressions we use in an if-else statement or a while loop. A non-Boolean statement such as an assignment statement or an input/output statement here will result in a syntax error.

Ternary operator values

Right after the condition of a ternary operator we have a question mark (?) followed by two values, separated by a colon (:) that the ternary operator can return. The values part of the ternary operator in the above example is this:

“This is an even number!” : “This is an odd number!”;

In the example above, if the condition evaluates to true then the ternary operator will return the string value “This is an even number!”. If the condition evaluates to false then the ternary operator expression would return the string value “This is an odd number!”; .

The returning values can consist of any data type or can be the result of a Java expression that returns a value of any data type but it should be the same as the data type of the variable it is assigned to. The Java variable (msg) at the start of the ternary operator is of type String, then the values returned by the values must also be of type String. In the case of dissimilar data types, the code will result in a syntax error.

Using a ternary operator for null checks

As ternary operator takes relatively less space as compared to an if-else statement, it is feasible to be used as a shorthand for null checks before calling a method on an object. See this code snippet:

Now see this one demonstrating the same null check using an if statement:

Both examples are equivalent to each other, but the ternary operator example is a bit shorter and more elegant, making the code more readable.

Implementing math functions with ternary operator in Java

It could seem pointless at first as the math functions are already very straight forward but there could be many scenarios where you could be incapable of using them then ternary operator can be a very good alternative due to its short format.

· Using a ternary operator to find the maximum value

There is a simple function in math class in Java to find the maximum number but you can also achieve the same functionality using a ternary operator in Java. See this code snippet used to find the maximum number using the ternary operator in Java:

If the num1 value is larger than or equal to the num2 value. the ternary operator will return the num1, else it will return the value in num2.

· Using a ternary operator to find the minimum value

Just like the maximum, the Java ternary operator can also be used to find the minimum number like the Java Math min() function. See this example below:

· Using a ternary operator to find the absolute value

Now to find the absolute value, see this example the ternary operator in Java:

The ternary operator conditions will first check if the value in num1 is larger than or equal to 0. In that case, the ternary operator returns the value as it is else it will return -num1, which will negate the negative value, turning it positive.

Nested ternary operator in Java

Just like nesting in if-else statement, you can do that using Ternary Operator in Java by chaining more than one Java ternary operator together. It is done by implementing another ternary operator in place of one or both of the values. See this example of a chained ternary operator in Java:

Here we are also trying to find the maximum number, but now we have three values to compare.

The first ternary operator condition compares the num1 and num2 numbers just like before but the values to be returned are different here. In both conditions, a second ternary operator comparing the largest value with the third number stored in num3. The second ternary operator will then return the largest number among all three.

You can chain or nest the Java ternary operator multiple times as much as you want, as long as each ternary operator returns a single value, and each ternary operator is used in place of a single value.

It is still preferred not to use nesting as it makes the code more complex and difficult to make any amendments later.

See Also: Adding a Newline Character To a String In Java

Ternary operator in Java is neither a novelty nor an exceptional feature for Java developers but it can surely be a worthy addition to your Java tool kit. Ternary operator can come in handy if your code consists of several if-else statements at different places as it can significantly shorten your code by using ternary operator instead of “if statements”.

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Ternary Operator in Programming

The Ternary Operator is similar to the if-else statement as it follows the same algorithm as of if-else statement but the ternary operator takes less space and helps to write the if-else statements in the shortest way possible. It is known as the ternary operator because it operates on three operands.

Table of Content

What is a Ternary Operator?

  • Syntax of Ternary Operator
  • Working of Ternary Operator
  • Flowchart of Conditional/Ternary Operator
  • Ternary Operator in C
  • Ternary Operator in C++
  • Ternary Operator in Java
  • Ternary Operator in Python
  • Ternary Operator in C#
  • Ternary Operator in Javascript
  • Applications of Ternary Operator
  • Best Practices of Ternary Operator

The ternary operator is a conditional operator that takes three operands: a condition, a value to be returned if the condition is true , and a value to be returned if the condition is false . It evaluates the condition and returns one of the two specified values based on whether the condition is true or false.

Syntax of Ternary Operator:

The Ternary operator can be in the form

It can be visualized into an if-else statement as: 

Working of Ternary Operator :

The working of the Ternary operator is as follows:

  • Step 1: Expression1  is the condition to be evaluated.
  • Step 2A:  If the condition( Expression1 ) is True then  Expression2  will be executed.
  • Step 2B : If the condition( Expression1 ) is false then  Expression3  will be executed.
  • Step 3:  Results will be returned

Flowchart of Conditional/Ternary Operator:

uo

Flowchart of ternary operator

Ternary Operator in C:

Here are the implementation of Ternary Operator in C language:

Ternary Operator in C++:

Here are the implementation of Ternary Operator in C++ language:

Ternary Operator in Java:

Here are the implementation of Ternary Operator in java language:

Ternary Operator in Python:

Here are the implementation of Ternary Operator in python language:

Ternary Operator in C#:

Here are the implementation of Ternary Operator in C# language:

Ternary Operator in Javascript:

Here are the implementation of Ternary Operator in javascript language:

Applications of Ternary Operator:

  • Assigning values based on conditions.
  • Returning values from functions based on conditions.
  • Printing different messages based on conditions.
  • Handling null or default values conditionally.
  • Setting properties or attributes conditionally in UI frameworks.

Best Practices of Ternary Operator:

  • Use ternary operators for simple conditional expressions to improve code readability.
  • Avoid nesting ternary operators excessively, as it can reduce code clarity.
  • Use parentheses to clarify complex conditions and expressions involving ternary operators.

Conclusion:

The conditional operator or ternary operator is generally used when we need a short conditional code such as assigning value to a variable based on the condition. It can be used in bigger conditions but it will make the program very complex and unreadable.

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Spread syntax (...)

The spread ( ... ) syntax allows an iterable, such as an array or string, to be expanded in places where zero or more arguments (for function calls) or elements (for array literals) are expected. In an object literal, the spread syntax enumerates the properties of an object and adds the key-value pairs to the object being created.

Spread syntax looks exactly like rest syntax. In a way, spread syntax is the opposite of rest syntax. Spread syntax "expands" an array into its elements, while rest syntax collects multiple elements and "condenses" them into a single element. See rest parameters and rest property .

Description

Spread syntax can be used when all elements from an object or array need to be included in a new array or object, or should be applied one-by-one in a function call's arguments list. There are three distinct places that accept the spread syntax:

  • Function arguments list ( myFunction(a, ...iterableObj, b) )
  • Array literals ( [1, ...iterableObj, '4', 'five', 6] )
  • Object literals ( { ...obj, key: 'value' } )

Although the syntax looks the same, they come with slightly different semantics.

Only iterable values, like Array and String , can be spread in array literals and argument lists. Many objects are not iterable, including all plain objects that lack a Symbol.iterator method:

On the other hand, spreading in object literals enumerates the own properties of the value. For typical arrays, all indices are enumerable own properties, so arrays can be spread into objects.

All primitives can be spread in objects. Only strings have enumerable own properties, and spreading anything else doesn't create properties on the new object.

When using spread syntax for function calls, be aware of the possibility of exceeding the JavaScript engine's argument length limit. See Function.prototype.apply() for more details.

Spread in function calls

Replace apply().

It is common to use Function.prototype.apply() in cases where you want to use the elements of an array as arguments to a function.

With spread syntax the above can be written as:

Any argument in the argument list can use spread syntax, and the spread syntax can be used multiple times.

Apply for new operator

When calling a constructor with new , it's not possible to directly use an array and apply() , because apply() calls the target function instead of constructing it, which means, among other things, that new.target will be undefined . However, an array can be easily used with new thanks to spread syntax:

Spread in array literals

A more powerful array literal.

Without spread syntax, the array literal syntax is no longer sufficient to create a new array using an existing array as one part of it. Instead, imperative code must be used using a combination of methods, including push() , splice() , concat() , etc. With spread syntax, this becomes much more succinct:

Just like spread for argument lists, ... can be used anywhere in the array literal, and may be used more than once.

Copying an array

You can use spread syntax to make a shallow copy of an array. Each array element retains its identity without getting copied.

Spread syntax effectively goes one level deep while copying an array. Therefore, it may be unsuitable for copying multidimensional arrays. The same is true with Object.assign() — no native operation in JavaScript does a deep clone. The web API method structuredClone() allows deep copying values of certain supported types . See shallow copy for more details.

A better way to concatenate arrays

Array.prototype.concat() is often used to concatenate an array to the end of an existing array. Without spread syntax, this is done as:

With spread syntax this becomes:

Array.prototype.unshift() is often used to insert an array of values at the start of an existing array. Without spread syntax, this is done as:

With spread syntax, this becomes:

Note: Unlike unshift() , this creates a new arr1 , instead of modifying the original arr1 array in-place.

Conditionally adding values to an array

You can make an element present or absent in an array literal, depending on a condition, using a conditional operator .

When the condition is false , we spread an empty array, so that nothing gets added to the final array. Note that this is different from the following:

In this case, an extra undefined element is added when isSummer is false , and this element will be visited by methods such as Array.prototype.map() .

Spread in object literals

Copying and merging objects.

You can use spread syntax to merge multiple objects into one new object.

A single spread creates a shallow copy of the original object (but without non-enumerable properties and without copying the prototype), similar to copying an array .

Overriding properties

When one object is spread into another object, or when multiple objects are spread into one object, and properties with identical names are encountered, the property takes the last value assigned while remaining in the position it was originally set.

Conditionally adding properties to an object

You can make an element present or absent in an object literal, depending on a condition, using a conditional operator .

The case where the condition is false is an empty object, so that nothing gets spread into the final object. Note that this is different from the following:

In this case, the watermelon property is always present and will be visited by methods such as Object.keys() .

Because primitives can be spread into objects as well, and from the observation that all falsy values do not have enumerable properties, you can simply use a logical AND operator:

In this case, if isSummer is any falsy value, no property will be created on the fruits object.

Comparing with Object.assign()

Note that Object.assign() can be used to mutate an object, whereas spread syntax can't.

In addition, Object.assign() triggers setters on the target object, whereas spread syntax does not.

You cannot naively re-implement the Object.assign() function through a single spreading:

In the above example, the spread syntax does not work as one might expect: it spreads an array of arguments into the object literal, due to the rest parameter. Here is an implementation of merge using the spread syntax, whose behavior is similar to Object.assign() , except that it doesn't trigger setters, nor mutates any object:

Specifications

Specification

Browser compatibility

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  • Rest parameters
  • Rest property
  • Function.prototype.apply()
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Why can't Ternary operator be used without assignment (variable on the left)?

I have searched for this and there are some questions regarding the same problem, but none of the answers to those questions seem to address my query.

I have looked up the spec and managed to find the following points:

first expression to ternary must be of type boolean

second and third expressions cant be calls to void methods.

given the above information if I write the following code

it prints walter to console, meaning the expression returned something hence its not void. but now if try to write this

this code fails to compile with The left-hand side of an assignment must be a variable

Even though both of above conditions are met(to best of my knowledge). why the code doesn't compile and why it requires a variable on the left ?

moreover if I do this

the code fails to compile with

The operator <= is undefined for the argument type(s) java.lang.String,java.lang.String

but following compiles fine

  • Why there must be variable on the left side of ternary operator, method return values can be discarded why cant this be done in the case of ternary.
  • Why Java doesn't allow it, what problems or inconsistencies will it cause if allowed
  • ternary-operator

mightyWOZ's user avatar

  • 4 Because it's an expression, but not a StatementExpression. –  Andy Turner Commented Nov 23, 2018 at 16:34
  • not sure why you'd want the assignment done like that anyway, you should be able to do it like this: res = stuff.equals("TV") ? "Walter" : "White" ; which is a bit cleaner and saves you from having to put res = multiple times –  Quinn Commented Nov 23, 2018 at 16:41
  • 2 A partial answer: the first syntax error is due to operator precedence rules. stuff.equals ("TV") ? res= "Walter" : res = "White" is parsed as (stuff.equals ("TV") ? res= "Walter" : res) = "White" . Try instead stuff.equals ("TV") ? res= "Walter" : (res = "White") but even then it won't compile for the reason given by Andy. –  DodgyCodeException Commented Nov 23, 2018 at 16:57

The conditional operator is an expression: it has a result:

but you can't use it like this:

because it's not a StatementExpression ; this is much the same as the fact you can't write any of:

because they just don't serve any purpose.

A StatementExpression is an expression that you can pop a ; after, for example:

The full list of StatementExpression s can be found in the language spec :

As such, you don't have to have an assignment: you can use the conditional operator in a contrived way such as this:

(Not that I am in any way advocating this as good code, or in any way useful; merely pointing out that it is legal)

As for the rest of your issues: these are just compiler-implementation-specific messages. Your compiler is tripping over the invalid syntax, and doing its best to help you, but it is not doing an especially good job.

Note that other compilers (e.g. the one used by Ideone) give totally different messages.

The first form should be written using an if/else:

( if is a statement, incidentally)

The second one is just missing some parentheses:

Although the assignments in the second and third operands are redundant anyway:

Andy Turner's user avatar

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java ternary operator with assignment

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COMMENTS

  1. Java Ternary Operator with Examples

    Assignment Operator; Relational Operators; Logical Operators; ... Ternary Operator in Java. Java ternary operator is the only conditional operator that takes three operands. It's a one-liner replacement for the if-then-else statement and is used a lot in Java programming. We can use the ternary operator in place of if-else conditions or even ...

  2. java

    As you can see, this looks plain wrong. Indeed, JLS §15.26 says this: There are 12 assignment operators; all are syntactically right-associative (they group right-to-left). Thus, a=b=c means a=(b=c), which assigns the value of c to b and then assigns the value of b to a. The result of the first operand of an assignment operator must be a ...

  3. Ternary Operator in Java

    In this quick article, we learned about the ternary operator in Java. It isn't possible to replace every if-else construct with a ternary operator. But it's a great tool for some cases and makes our code much shorter and more readable. As usual, the entire source code is available over on GitHub.

  4. Java Ternary Operator with Examples

    Introduction to the Ternary Operator. The ternary operator in Java is a shorthand for the if-else statement. It is a compact syntax that evaluates a condition and returns one of two values based on the condition's result. ... Example 2: Conditional Assignment Scenario. Assign a default value to a variable if a condition is not met. Code ...

  5. Java Short Hand If...Else (Ternary Operator)

    Java Short Hand If...Else (Ternary Operator) Previous Next Short Hand if...else. There is also a short-hand if else, which is known as the ternary operator because it consists of three operands. It can be used to replace multiple lines of code with a single line, and is most often used to replace simple if else statements:

  6. The Java ternary operator examples

    Here's an example of the Java ternary operator being used to assign the minimum (or maximum) value of two variables to a third variable, essentially replacing a Math.min(a,b) or Math.max(a,b) method call. This example assigns the minimum of two variables, a and b, to a third variable named minVal: In this code, if the variable a is less than ...

  7. Java Ternary Operator (With Example)

    Ternary Operator in Java. A ternary operator evaluates the test condition and executes a block of code based on the result of the condition. Its syntax is: condition ? expression1 : expression2; Here, condition is evaluated and. if condition is true, expression1 is executed. And, if condition is false, expression2 is executed.

  8. Java Ternary Operator with examples

    The Java ternary operator allows you to build a single-line if statement. True or false can be the result of a ternary operator. Whether the statement evaluates to true or false, it returns a certain result. ... Assignment Operator; Relational Operators; Logical Operators; Java Ternary Operator with examples.

  9. Ternary Operator

    In Java, the ternary operator, also known as the conditional operator, is a special operator that takes three operands: a condition followed by a question mark (?), an expression to evaluate if the condition is true, followed by a colon (:), and an expression to evaluate if the condition is false. ... Assignment Operators Logical Operators ...

  10. Ternary Operator in Java: An If…Else Shorthand Guide

    The basic types of operators in Java include arithmetic, relational, bitwise, logical, and assignment operators. The ternary operator falls under the category of conditional operators, which perform different computations depending on whether a programmer-specified boolean condition evaluates to true or false.

  11. Ternary Operator in Java

    The TernaryOperatorExample class in Java demonstrates the usage of the ternary operator to determine whether a given number is even or odd. The main method initializes two integer variables, x, and y, with values 10 and 11, respectively. It then uses the ternary operator to assign a corresponding message based on whether the number is even or odd.

  12. Ternary Operator in Java

    Ternary Operator Java. In Java, the ternary operator is a type of Java conditional operator. In this section, we will discuss the ternary operator in Java with proper examples.. The meaning of ternary is composed of three parts. The ternary operator (? :) consists of three operands. It is used to evaluate Boolean expressions. The operator decides which value will be assigned to the variable.

  13. Ternary Operator in Java

    The Ternary operator in Java is a powerful tool for writing concise and expressive code when dealing with simple conditional assignments. It offers advantages such as compactness, improved readability for straightforward conditions, and efficient code. However, it should be used judiciously and avoided for complex conditions to maintain code ...

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    The fact that the assignment operator returns the thing it is assigning; Share. Improve this answer. Follow answered Jun 28, 2011 at 18:14 ... Java ternary operator. 3. Java ternary operator confusion. 6. Why is the Ternary operator not working inside a method argument in java. 1.

  15. Java Ternary Operator

    Last update: 2024-05-12. The Java ternary operator functions like a simplified Java if statement. The ternary operator consists of a condition that evaluates to either true or false , plus a value that is returned if the condition is true and another value that is returned if the condition is false. Here is a simple Java ternary operator example:

  16. Java Ternary Operator with Examples

    Ternary operator in Java. The ternary operator in Java is a part of conditional statements. As the name ternary suggests, it is the only operator in Java that consists of three operands. The Java ternary operator can be thought of as a simplified version of the if-else statement with a value to be returned.

  17. Ternary Operator in Programming

    The Ternary Operator is similar to the if-else statement as it follows the same algorithm as of if-else statement but the ternary operator takes less space and helps to write the if-else statements in the shortest way possible. It is known as the ternary operator because it operates on three operands. ... Ternary Operator in Java: Here are the ...

  18. I need a ternary operator in Java that assigns two variables if the

    There isn't a comma operator in Java. (Although, if you like bad code you can declare multiple variables in a single declaration using commas.) - Tom Hawtin ... Assignment as part of ternary if. 0. Ternary Operator in java with multiple statements. Hot Network Questions Would a PhD from Europe, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand be accepted in ...

  19. Spread syntax (...)

    The spread (...) syntax allows an iterable, such as an array or string, to be expanded in places where zero or more arguments (for function calls) or elements (for array literals) are expected. In an object literal, the spread syntax enumerates the properties of an object and adds the key-value pairs to the object being created. Spread syntax looks exactly like rest syntax.

  20. java

    Why can't Ternary operator be used without assignment (variable on the left)? Ask Question Asked 5 years, ... Why there must be variable on the left side of ternary operator, method return values can be discarded why cant this be done in the case of ternary. Why Java doesn't allow it, what problems or inconsistencies will it cause if allowed;