Though final, finally, and finalize sound similar in Java, they each serve very different purposes. Here’s a clear breakdown:
🔒 final – The Constant Keyword
Used as a modifier for variables, methods, and classes.
- Variables: Makes the value constant (can’t be changed).
- Methods: Prevents overriding in subclasses.
- Classes: Prevents inheritance (cannot be subclassed).
🔁 finally – Always Executes
Used in exception handling to ensure a block of code runs no matter what, whether or not an exception occurs.
Think: cleanup duty—like closing files, releasing connections, etc.
🧹 finalize() – Legacy Cleanup Method (Not Recommended)
A method that Java calls before an object is garbage collected.
- Used to free up resources before an object is removed.
- Rarely used now because it’s unpredictable and mostly obsolete. Java recommends alternatives like
try-with-resources.
🧠 Quick Recap Table
| Keyword | What is it? | Used for… |
|---|---|---|
final | Modifier | Constants, prevent override/inherit |
finally | Code block | Run cleanup code after try/catch |
finalize | Method | Legacy cleanup before garbage collect |
