"this"

[xtiano77]

Can someone explain to me the use of the word "this"? I used it in JavaScript to refer to a particular object, but I am not too clear of its use in Java.

[peter_budo]

Have look at this tutorial it should make it clear for you

[Twey]

'this' refers to the instance on which the method is currently being called. For example, if you have:

class Foo {
  public string baz;

  public String bar() {
    return this.baz;
  }

  public static void main(String[] args) {
    Foo f = new Foo();
    Foo.baz = "fish";
    System.out.println((new Foo()).bar()); // Will print 'fish'.
  }
}

It serves roughly the same function in Java as in Javascript, but has vastly different mechanics due to the differences between the two languages.

[xtiano77]

I understand the purpose it it, but I am still not very clear. I guess I'll have to keep on reading until the clouds disipate and the light breaks through. Thanks.

[Twey]

This article I wrote might help you, Javascript-oriented though it be: http://fn-js.info/faqs/context. The same principle applies to Java, although methods are not truly properties in Java, since it doesn't have first-class functions.

[xtiano77]

I finally got it. Thanks Twey and everyone for your help. I guess I need to relax and not streess over it so much and eventually the clouds will disipate and sunlight will shine through (figuratively speaking). Thanks again.