# encodeConditional(_:forKey:) Encodes a reference to the given object only if it is encoded unconditionally elsewhere in the payload (previously, or in the future). ``` mutating func encodeConditional(_ object: T, forKey key: Self.Key) throws where T : AnyObject, T : Encodable ``` ## Parameters `object` The object to encode. `key` The key to associate the object with. ## Discussion For encoders which don’t support this feature, the default implementation encodes the given object unconditionally. > throws: `EncodingError.invalidValue` if the given value is invalid in > the current context for this format. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)