Difference between prototype and prototype._

Question

What is the difference between

prototype.somefunction()

and

prototype._anotherfunction()

I know this might be trivial, but I couldn't find it.

score 4 · Accepted Answer · answered Mar 12 '14 at 15:55

4

One has an underscore in the name. There's no difference as far as the javascript engine itself is concerned.

However, it's a common convention to name "private" methods such that they start with an underscore.

answered Mar 12 '14 at 15:55

starwed

Its a convention? So that means in javascript terms its actually a function which can be called on the object by anyone? – Saransh Mohapatra Mar 12 '14 at 17:12
@SaranshMohapatra Yes, it's just a sign to maybe think twice before doing so. (And in a library, an indication that there's a way higher chance of it breaking on an upgrade.) – starwed Mar 12 '14 at 17:59

score 1 · Answer 2 · answered Mar 12 '14 at 15:55

1

_ prefix means that method is supposed to be private, not more than that

answered Mar 12 '14 at 15:55

Vytalyi

2 Answers2