Command line Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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command line

[ˈkəˌmænd ˌlaɪn ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

computing

A command-line interface (CLI) is a means of interacting with a computer program where the user issues commands to the program in the form of successive lines of text (command lines).

Synonyms

CLI, terminal, text-based interface.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
command line	General reference to a text-based user interface where users type commands to interact with the computer. You can use the command line to navigate through your directories. The command line is very powerful for automating tasks.
CLI	Abbreviation for Command Line Interface, often used in technical documentation or by developers. The new software version has a more user-friendly CLI. Experienced users prefer using the CLI for faster operations.
text-based interface	A broader term that refers to any interface where users primarily interact through text, can include command line interfaces and others. Old video games often used a text-based interface for player interactions. A text-based interface can be less demanding on system resources compared to a graphical one.
terminal	Refers specifically to the application or environment where the command line can be accessed. Often used in Unix-based systems. You need to open the terminal to execute this script. The terminal emulator allows you to run multiple shell sessions.

Examples of usage

I prefer using the command line for quick tasks.
The command line allows for more precise control over the system.
To access the advanced settings, you need to use the command line.
Many programmers are proficient in using the command line efficiently.
Learning to navigate the command line is an essential skill for IT professionals.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The command line first appeared in the early 1970s with the Unix operating system, revolutionizing how users interacted with computers.
Before graphical interfaces, computer users relied solely on command lines to perform tasks, making it the cornerstone of programming environments.

Technology

The command line interface is often faster than graphical user interfaces for many tasks, especially for experienced users.
Many programming languages and tools, like Python and Git, utilize command lines for installation and operation, showing its persistence in modern development.

Culture

In the tech community, being proficient with the command line is often seen as a rite of passage for new developers and system administrators.
Numerous memes and jokes circulate about the command line, often highlighting its vintage appeal or the steep learning curve associated with using it.

Education

Many computer science courses incorporate command line training to help students learn the foundations of programming and system operations.
Online coding platforms often provide challenges that require using command line instructions, helping users practice real-world skills.

Pop Culture

Movies like 'The Social Network' highlight the use of command lines in the development of revolutionary technology.
Gamers sometimes use command lines to cheat or modify gameplay in classic games, showing its impact on the gaming culture.

Origin of 'command line'

The concept of a command line goes back to the early days of computing when computers were operated using text-based commands. The command line interface remains popular among developers and IT professionals due to its efficiency and flexibility in managing systems and executing tasks. Over the years, the command line has evolved with various enhancements and features to meet the needs of modern computing environments.