Related

List Directory Contents

linux

List files and directories in the current or specified directory with various formatting options.

Copy Files

linux

Copy files and directories from one location to another.

Remove Files or Directories

linux

Delete files or directories permanently.

linux/mv

Move or Rename Files

Move or rename files and directories.

filesystem
basic
move
rename
linux

Command

mv

Explanation

The `mv` (move) command is used to relocate or rename files and directories. If the target location exists, it overwrites files silently unless `-i` is used. When moving across different filesystems, data is copied and the source is deleted. Use `-v` to show each move operation in progress.

Common Use Cases

  • •Rename files or directories
  • •Move files to organized folders
  • •Archive or reorganize directories

Best Practices

  • ✓Use `-i` for confirmation before overwriting
  • ✓Use `mv -v` to see progress
  • ✓Ensure destination directories exist before moving

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ⚠Overwriting files without confirmation
  • ⚠Forgetting destination path
  • ⚠Trying to move across filesystems without permissions

Troubleshooting

Problem: Permission denied when moving files

Solution: Use `sudo mv` if elevated permissions are required.

Problem: Accidentally overwritten files

Solution: Use `-i` or `--backup` to prevent overwriting important files.

Examples

Rename a file

mv old.txt new.txt

Move file to another directory

mv file.txt /tmp/

More

Create File or Update Timestamps

linux

Create new empty files or update existing file timestamps.

Change Directory

linux

Change the current working directory to a specified path.

Print Working Directory

linux

Display the full path of the current working directory.