What is @Override for in Java? [duplicate]

Question

Possible Duplicate:
When do you use Java’s @Override annotation and why?

Is there any reason to annotate a method with @Override other than to have the compiler check that the superclass has that method?

Answer 1

As you describe, @Override creates a compile-time check that a method is being overridden. This is very useful to make sure you do not have a silly signature issue when trying to override.

For example, I have seen the following error:

public class Foo {   private String id;   public boolean equals(Foo f) { return id.equals(f.id);} } 

This class compiles as written, but adding the @Override tag to the equals method will cause a compilation error as it does not override the equals method on Object. This is a simple error, but it can escape the eye of even a seasoned developer

Answer 2

It not only makes the compiler check - although that would be enough to make it useful; it also documents the developer's intention.

For instance, if you override a method but don't use it anywhere from the type itself, someone coming to the code later may wonder why on earth it's there. The annotation explains its purpose.