What character is used as a statement terminator in Java?

In Java, the semicolon is used as a statement terminator. Each statement in Java must end with a semicolon, which indicates to the compiler where one statement ends and the next begins. This is similar to how sentences in the English language end with a period, but in programming, each individual instruction or command is concluded with a semicolon to ensure the program is parsed correctly.

Using a semicolon to terminate statements also helps maintain clarity and organization in the code, as it delineates separate operations and makes it easier to read. For example, if you were to declare a variable and print it to the console, your code might look like this:

int number = 5;

System.out.println(number);

Here, each line represents a distinct statement that performs a specific action, and both end with a semicolon to indicate their conclusion.

In contrast, a comma is typically used in Java for separating items in lists or parameters in method calls, a colon is not used as a statement terminator, and a period is primarily used to access methods and properties of objects. Thus, the semicolon is the defining character that structures the flow of commands in Java programming.