For Each Loop in Java

Beginner ⏱ 6 min read Updated: Jun 2026

The for each loop in Java, also known as the enhanced for loop, is used to iterate through elements of arrays and collections easily.

Unlike the traditional for loop, the for each loop does not require initialization, condition, or increment/decrement statements. It automatically moves through each element of a collection or array.

What is For Each Loop in Java?

A for each loop in Java is a simplified version of the traditional for loop that is specially designed for traversing arrays and collections.

It executes a block of code once for each element present in the array or collection.

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Key Point: The for each loop is mainly used when you only need to read elements from an array or collection.

Syntax of For Each Loop in Java

Syntax

for(dataType variable : arrayName) {
    // code to execute
}

How For Each Loop Works in Java?

The loop starts from the first element of the array or collection.
Each element is assigned to the loop variable one by one.
The code block executes for every element.
The loop automatically stops after processing all elements.

Example of For Each Loop in Java

Example

public class Main {
    public static void main(String[] args) { 
        int numbers[] = {10, 20, 30, 40};
        for(int number : numbers) { 
            System.out.println(number);
        }
        }
        }

Output

10
20
30
40

For Each Loop with String Array

The for each loop can also be used to access elements of a String array without using indexes.

Example

public class Main {
    public static void main(String[] args) { 
         String names[] = {"John, Alex, David};" 
        for (String name : names) {
            System.out.println(name);
        }
    }
 }

Output

John
Alex
David

For Loop vs For Each Loop in Java

For Loop: Used when you need control over index, starting point, and ending point.
For Each Loop: Used for simple traversal of arrays and collections.
For each loop does not provide direct access to the index value.

Advantages of For Each Loop in Java


                    Simple Syntax

Requires less code compared to traditional for loops.


                    Easy Traversal

Makes reading array and collection elements easier.


                    Less Errors

Reduces chances of index-related errors.

Limitations of For Each Loop

Cannot access the index position directly.
Cannot easily modify elements while iterating.
Not suitable when you need custom iteration control.

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