Difference between lambda expressions and anonymous methods - C#

Question

Duplicate: http://stackoverflow.com/questions/299703/c-delegate-keyword-vs-lambda-notation

I understand the anonymous methods can be used to define delegates and write inline functions. Is using Lambda expressions any different from this?

I guess I am a little confused on when to use what.

Edit: Also, appears that to use either anonymous or lambdas, there needs to be an Extension method for the type?

Answer 1

Not really no. They are essentially the exact same feature with different syntax constructs. The general shift appears to be away from the C# 2.0 anonymous method syntax towards the lambda style syntax for both anonymous expressions and functions though.

Answer 2

A lambda expression is simply shortcut syntax for an anonymous method. Anonymous methods look like this:

delegate(params) {method body}

The equivalent lambda expression would look like this:

params => method body

In short, all lambda expressions are anonymous methods, but it is possible to have an anonymous method that is not written in lambda syntax (like the first example above). Hope this is helpful!

Answer 3

Here's a good explanation: C#: delegate keyword vs. lambda notation

Answer 4

Lambda expressions can be converted to expression trees, while anonymous delegates cannot.