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man Command in Linux

man Command in Linux

By Team Scaler
2 mins read
Last updated: 22 Aug 2023
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Overview

The man command in Linux is a utility that allows users to access the built-in manual pages of various commands and programs. These manual pages contain detailed information about the syntax, options, and usage of commands, helping users to better understand and utilize the tools available in their Linux environment.

Linux man Command Syntax

The syntax for the man command is as follows:

Where:

  • option: Optional flags that modify the behavior of the man command.
  • section: The section number of the manual to search in. If not provided, man searches in all sections.
  • command: The command or program whose manual page you want to view.

man Command Options:

  • -f: Displays a list of manual pages with a short description for the given command.
  • -k: Searches for manual pages containing the specified keyword in their description.
  • -a: Displays all available manual pages for the given command in all sections.
  • -w: Displays the file path of the manual page for the given command.

Example Usages

  • Display the manual page for the 'ls' command.:

    Output:

    Explanation: This command opens the manual page for the 'ls' command, showing its syntax, options, and usage.

  • Find the manual page containing the keyword 'copy'.:

    Output:

    Explanation: This command searches for manual pages containing the keyword 'copy' and returns a list of matches with short descriptions.

Tips

  • If you don't know the exact command, try using 'man -k' with a keyword to find relevant manual pages.

  • To exit a manual page, press 'q'.

Advanced Use Cases of man Command in Linux

  • Display all manual pages for the 'passwd' command.:

    Output:

    Explanation: This command shows all available manual pages for the 'passwd' command in all sections.

  • Display the file path of the 'df' command's manual page.:

    Output:

    Explanation: This command displays the file path of the 'df' command's manual page.

  • Display the manual page for the 'chown' command in section 2.:

    Output:

    Explanation: This command opens the manual page for the 'chown' command in section 2.

Conclusion

  • man command is a powerful tool to access built-in manual pages.

  • It offers various options for searching and viewing manual pages.

  • Manual pages provide detailed information about command syntax, options, and usage.