Files & folders

Linux mv command

Move or rename files and directories.

Availability: Common Linux commands; shell built-ins and external implementations may differ by distribution.中文

Syntax

mv [OPTION]... SOURCE... DESTINATION

Examples

Move a file and prompt if the destination exists.

mv -i draft.txt ./archive/

Rename a file in the same directory.

mv old-name.txt new-name.txt

Parameters, options and clauses

Option / clause	Description
`-i, --interactive`	Prompt before overwriting a destination.
`-n, --no-clobber`	Do not overwrite an existing destination.
`-f, --force`	Do not prompt before overwriting.
`-u, --update`	Move only when the source is newer or destination is missing.
`-t, --target-directory=DIR`	Move all sources into DIR.
`-v, --verbose`	Explain what is being moved.

Safety note

Review a command and its target before running it. Commands that alter files, services, accounts, disks, permissions or databases may be difficult to reverse. Test in a safe environment and keep backups.

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