Is there a VB.NET expression that *always* yields null?

Question

We all know that VB\'s Nothing is similar, but not equivalent, to C#\'s null. (If you are not aware of that, have a look at this answer first.)

Answer 1

You can create one yourself (pick a different name for the function if you like):

Private Function ValueOrNull(expression As Boolean, value As Object) As Object
  If expression Then Return value
  Return Nothing
End Function

Usage:

Dim myBool As Boolean
Dim o As Object = ValueOrNull(myBool, 5)

Works with any type, including your example with 5.0.