instantiate_enum

Enums can't be instantiated.

The analyzer produces this diagnostic when an enum is instantiated. It's invalid to create an instance of an enum by invoking a constructor; only the instances named in the declaration of the enum can exist.

The following code produces this diagnostic because the enum E is being instantiated:

// @dart = 2.16
enum E {a}

var e = E();

If you intend to use an instance of the enum, then reference one of the constants defined in the enum:

// @dart = 2.16
enum E {a}

var e = E.a;

If you intend to use an instance of a class, then use the name of that class in place of the name of the enum.

Unless stated otherwise, the documentation on this site reflects Dart 3.7.3. Page last updated on 2025-05-08. View source or report an issue.