Infix Functions in Kotlin

Introduction

Infix Functions is a fundamental concept every Kotlin developer should understand. Functions are first-class in Kotlin — parameters, return types, and concise syntax make APIs easy to read and reuse.

An infix function is called without dot notation between the receiver and argument. In this tutorial you will learn the syntax, walk through a complete example program, study the sample output, and review best practices so you can apply the concept confidently in your own projects.

Definition

• An infix function is called without dot notation between the receiver and argument.
• Mark a member or extension function with the infix modifier.
• Standard library examples include to, until, and various math helpers.

Syntax

infix fun Int.times(str: String) = str.repeat(this)
2 times "Ha"

Infix Functions in Kotlin Example Program in Kotlin

infix fun Int.times(str: String) = str.repeat(this)

fun main() {
    val result = 3 times "Kotlin "
    println(result.trim())
}

Sample Output

Kotlin Kotlin Kotlin

When to use

Use default and named parameters to reduce overloads; use single-expression functions for small pure helpers.

How it works

1. The program starts with a main function — the entry point that runs when you execute the file.

2. An infix function is called without dot notation between the receiver and argument.

3. Run the program in IntelliJ IDEA, Android Studio, or with the Kotlin command-line compiler (kotlinc / kotlin). Compare your console output with the sample output shown below.

Best Practices

• Understand the core idea: an infix function is called without dot notation between the receiver and argument.
• Prefer readable names and small functions so examples map directly to real projects.
• Run and modify the example — change values and observe how the output changes.

Common Mistakes

• Skipping the example and only reading the definition — hands-on practice cements the concept.
• Copying syntax without understanding nullable vs non-nullable types or scope rules.
• Ignoring compiler warnings that often point to safer alternatives.

Key Points

• An infix function is called without dot notation between the receiver and argument.
• Mark a member or extension function with the infix modifier.
• Standard library examples include to, until, and various math helpers.
• Test the example locally and verify the output matches the sample.
• Experiment by changing input values to see how behaviour changes.

Notes

• Semicolons at the end of statements are optional in Kotlin.