invalid_reference_to_generative_enum_constructor

Generative enum constructors can only be used as targets of redirection.

The analyzer produces this diagnostic when a generative constructor defined on an enum is used anywhere other than to create one of the enum constants or as the target of a redirection from another constructor in the same enum.

The following code produces this diagnostic because the constructor for E is being used to create an instance in the function f:

enum E {
  a(0);

  const E(int x);
}

E f() => const E(2);

If there's an enum value with the same value, or if you add such a constant, then reference the constant directly:

enum E {
  a(0), b(2);

  const E(int x);
}

E f() => E.b;

If you need to use a constructor invocation, then use a factory constructor:

enum E {
  a(0);

  const E(int x);

  factory E.c(int x) => a;
}

E f() => E.c(2);

Unless stated otherwise, the documentation on this site reflects Dart 3.8.0. Page last updated on 2025-05-08. View source or report an issue.