CLI Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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CLI

[ˈkɒmænd laɪn ˈɪntəfeɪs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

Command Line Interface

A Command Line Interface (CLI) is a text-based interface used to interact with a computer system or program. It allows users to input commands as text and receive output in text format. CLI is commonly used by developers, system administrators, and power users for tasks such as file management, software installation, and system configuration.

Synonyms

Command Line Interface, shell, text-based interface.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
CLI	General technical discussions when referring to command line interfaces briefly. Common in both casual and professional IT conversations. The CLI is user-friendly once you get the hang of the commands. Many developers prefer using the CLI for version control tasks.
Command Line Interface	Formal or detailed explanations, often in documentation or when making it clear to someone unfamiliar with the terminology. The Command Line Interface allows users to type textual commands to operate the computer. You can execute scripts more efficiently using the Command Line Interface.
text-based interface	Emphasizing the lack of graphical elements or when comparing with graphical user interfaces (GUI). Often found in user guides or comparison articles. Some old games still use a text-based interface for simplicity. Engineers often use a text-based interface to manage remote servers.
shell	Referring to a specific command interpreter or when discussing the environment where commands are executed. Common in Unix/Linux contexts. Open the shell to access the server's file system. The Bash shell is very powerful for system administrators.

Examples of usage

Many programmers prefer using CLI for its efficiency and flexibility.
System administrators often rely on CLI for automating tasks.
CLI is known for its speed and low resource consumption.
Learning to use CLI can greatly enhance your productivity.
CLI is a powerful tool for managing server environments.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The first command line interfaces emerged in the 1960s with machines like the LGP-21, which operated entirely without graphical displays.
DOS (Disk Operating System), developed in the early 1980s, popularized CLI use before GUI (Graphical User Interface) became widely adopted.

Technology

Using a CLI is often faster for experienced users who take advantage of keyboard shortcuts and command history for efficiency.
Most modern operating systems, including Unix-based systems and Windows, support CLI access for advanced tasks.

Culture

The hacking culture often embraces command line skills, where proficiency is seen as a badge of honor among programmers.
CLI is favored in many tech circles for its power over graphical interfaces, especially among developers and system administrators.

Education

Learning to use the command line can enhance problem-solving skills, as it requires logical thinking and a deeper understanding of system operations.
Computer science courses often introduce CLI usage early in curricula to prepare students for real-world computing tasks.

Origin of 'CLI'

Main points about word origin

The term 'Command Line Interface' was formed in the 1970s when computers were operated primarily through text-based input.
In computing, 'interface' refers to the method of interaction between the user and the machine, emphasizing how commands are entered and executed.

The use of Command Line Interface (CLI) dates back to the early days of computing when computers were operated using punch cards and teletypes. The CLI provided a way for users to interact with the computer system by typing commands directly. Over time, graphical user interfaces (GUIs) became more popular, but CLI remains widely used in various fields due to its efficiency and power. Today, CLI is an essential tool for many IT professionals and developers.