When should I accept a parameter of Iterable vs. Collection in Java?

Question

What are the considerations of using Iterable vs. Collection in Java?

For example, consider implementing a type that is primarily concerned with contai

Answer 1

Use the most general interface that you can. Since all you're going to do is iterate, then I would say Iterable is the way to go (since it allows lazy iterators, etc.). You don't care where the iterator is coming from, so don't restrict it more than you have to.