Why Doesn't .NET's `IEnumerable` Have a `ForEach` Extension Method?

.NET's IEnumerable: The Missing ForEach Extension Method

Unlike many other languages, the .NET Framework surprisingly omits a ForEach extension method for IEnumerable. This absence often sparks questions, with performance worries frequently cited as a potential reason.

Why the Omission?

C#'s built-in foreach statement already handles most iteration needs effectively. Adding a ForEach extension method would be redundant.

Moreover, the foreach statement's readability generally surpasses that of a ForEach() method call:

<code class="language-csharp">// Using ForEach() extension method
list.ForEach(item => item.DoSomething());

// Using foreach statement
foreach (var item in list)
{
    item.DoSomething();
}</code>

While foreach requires more keystrokes, its clarity often wins out.

Reconsidering the Need

Recent conversations have highlighted potential benefits of a ForEach() extension method:

• Compile-time type safety: ForEach() provides compile-time type checking, unlike the runtime checks of foreach.
• Concise delegate invocation: Calling delegates is more compact with ForEach(), exemplified by objects.ForEach(DoSomething).
• Method chaining potential: Although the practical value and potential drawbacks need careful consideration, ForEach() enables method chaining.

These advantages suggest that a standardized ForEach() method could be a valuable addition to future .NET versions.

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