How to compare enum with associated values by ignoring its associated value in Swift? -

after reading how test equality of swift enums associated values, implemented following enum:

enum cardrank {     case number(int)     case jack     case queen     case king     case ace }  func ==(a: cardrank, b: cardrank) -> bool {     switch (a, b) {     case (.number(let a), .number(let b))   == b: return true     case (.jack, .jack): return true     case (.queen, .queen): return true     case (.king, .king): return true     case (.ace, .ace): return true     default: return false     } } 

the following code works:

let card: cardrank = cardrank.jack if card == cardrank.jack {     print("you played jack!") } else if card == cardrank.number(2) {     print("a 2 cannot played @ time.") } 

however, doesn't compile:

let number = cardrank.number(5) if number == cardrank.number {     print("you must play face card!") } 

... , gives following error message:

binary operator '==' cannot applied operands of type 'cardrank' , '(int) -> cardrank'

i'm assuming because it's expecting full type , cardrank.number not specify entire type, whereas cardrank.number(2) did. however, in case, want match any number; not specific one.

obviously can use switch statement, whole point of implementing == operator avoid verbose solution:

switch number { case .number:     print("you must play face card!") default:     break } 

is there way compare enum associated values while ignoring associated value?

note: realize change case in == method case (.number, .number): return true, but, although return true correctly, comparison still being compared specific number (number == cardrank.number(2); 2 dummy value) rather any number (number == cardrank.number).

edit: etan points out, can omit (_) wildcard match use more cleanly.

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unfortunately, don't believe there's easier way switch approach in swift 1.2.

in swift 2, however, can use new if-case pattern match:

let number = cardrank.number(5) if case .number(_) = number {     // number } else {     // else } 

if you're looking avoid verbosity, might consider adding isnumber computed property enum implements switch statement.