NumberFormat: parse() vs parseObject()

Question

When would it be the case to use parseObject() rather than parse() ? I am aware that the first returns an Object and the second a Number, however when is the case of parsing an object different from a Number hence justifying the presence of parseObject() ?

Answer 1

If you know you're dealing with a NumberFormat , there's probably no good reason to. However, if you're in the unusual situation of only knowing about Format , then you don't know what kind of value you're parsing to, and parseObject is all there is.

Personally I don't remember ever using just plain Format on its own, but I suppose if you're in the general "parsing and formatting" business (eg for UI widgets) then it could be useful.