Why Doesn't C# Have a ForEach Extension Method for `IEnumerable`?

The Missing IEnumerable ForEach Extension Method in C#

C# includes the foreach statement, yet surprisingly lacks a corresponding ForEach extension method for the IEnumerable interface. This absence prompts questions about its design and potential implications.

Performance Trade-offs

The foreach statement's efficiency is a key reason for the omission. The .NET runtime optimizes its foreach loop implementation. A delegate-based ForEach method might introduce performance overhead from extra function calls and type verification.

Simplicity and Readability

The clarity and readability of the foreach statement are also significant factors. Its straightforward syntax enhances code understanding and maintenance. An additional method-based approach could add unnecessary complexity and reduce readability.

Statement vs. Method: Key Differences

Despite the existing foreach statement, a ForEach method offers potential advantages:

• Type Checking: foreach performs runtime type checking, while a ForEach() method would offer compile-time type checking.
• Syntax: A ForEach() method would provide a more concise syntax: objects.ForEach(DoSomething).
• Method Chaining: A ForEach() method could potentially enable method chaining for more complex operations.

Future Possibilities

While the foreach statement adequately handles most situations, the C# team has acknowledged the potential benefits of a standard ForEach method. They've indicated a willingness to consider adding it in future framework versions.

The above is the detailed content of Why Doesn't C# Have a ForEach Extension Method for `IEnumerable`?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!