java - Array type in generics

Question

I am trying to create an array of generic type. I am getting error:

 Pair<String, String>[] pairs;   // no error here

 pairs = new Pair<String, String>[10];   // compile error here

 void method (Pair<String, String>[] pairs)  // no error here.

I am confused. Any clues why this is happening.

Answer 1

The reason behind this is that you can't create arrays of generic or parameterized types, only reifiable types (i.e. types which can be deduced at runtime).

It is possible though to declare such array types as variables or method parameters. This is a bit illogical, but that's how Java is now.

Java Generics and Collections deals with this and related issues extensively in chapter 6.