Why Does `toString()` Fail to Convert Arrays to Human-Readable Strings in Java?

Why the toString() Method Falls Short for Arrays

In Java, the toString() method is a convenient tool for converting objects into their human-readable string representations. However, it can behave oddly when applied to arrays.

The Issue:

When attempting to convert a character array to a string using toString(), Java does not provide the expected output. Instead, it generates a confusing string containing brackets, a character representing the array's element type ("C" for char), and a numerical hash code ("[C@e53108").

The Explanation:

Java's default toString() implementation for arrays is designed to return the array's type and its "identity hash code," which is a unique identifier for the array object in memory. This information is primarily useful for debugging purposes and not intended for human consumption.

The Solution:

To obtain a human-readable representation of an array, Java provides an alternative method called Arrays.toString(). This method converts the array elements into a comma-separated string, providing a more accessible output.

In the example code, the following modification resolves the issue:

System.out.println(Arrays.toString(Array));

By using Arrays.toString(), the output now correctly returns "abcdef," as expected, without any gibberish.

A Historical Mistake?

Java's default toString() behavior for arrays has often been criticized as a "mistake," as it can be confusing and unintuitive. Some developers argue that it should have returned the array's elements in a more meaningful way by default, similar to Arrays.toString().

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