Overview
`yes` is a simple utility that continuously outputs a specific string in an infinite loop. It is mainly used to automatically respond to confirmation questions when interactive commands are executed automatically, making it useful for script automation.
Key Features
- Repeatedly outputs the default string 'y'
- Can repeat a user-specified string
- Useful for automatically responding to confirmation prompts of other commands
- Can be stopped by pressing Ctrl+C
Main Options
By default, the `yes` command outputs 'y'. However, you can provide an argument to make it repeat a different string. There are no separate flag options.
Specify String to Repeat
Generated command:
Try combining the commands.
Description:
`yes` Executes the command.
Combine the above options to virtually execute commands with AI.
Usage Examples
Examples demonstrating various ways to use the `yes` command. It is often used in conjunction with other commands via pipes (|).
Default 'y' Repetition
yesContinuously outputs 'y' until Ctrl+C is pressed.
Repeat a Specific String
yes "Hello World!"Repeatedly outputs the string 'Hello World!'.
Automatic Response to Confirmation Prompts
yes | rm -i my_file.txtAutomatically answers all confirmation prompts for interactive commands (e.g., `rm -i`) with 'y' to proceed with deletion. **Caution: This command can be very dangerous and should be used with extreme care.**
Using with xargs
find . -name "*.txt" -print0 | yes | xargs -0 rm -iWhen executing `rm -i` for all .txt files found by the `find` command, `yes` automatically approves the deletion confirmation. **This is a very dangerous combination and requires caution.**
Tips & Precautions
The `yes` command is very simple, but it can be powerfully utilized when combined with other commands. However, it must be used with caution.
How to Stop the Command
The `yes` command runs indefinitely, so you must forcefully stop it by pressing Ctrl+C in the terminal.
- Ctrl+C: Terminates the currently running `yes` process.
Caution with Automation
When using the `yes` command to automatically respond to interactive prompts, extreme caution is advised. Especially when used with commands that modify or delete data such as `rm`, `mv`, or `cp`, it can lead to unintended data loss. Always ensure you fully understand the command and test it before executing automated scripts.
Alternatives
In certain situations, you might consider alternatives to `yes`.
- Some commands offer their own automatic confirmation options, such as `-y` or `--assume-yes`. If available, using these options is generally safer.
- Instead of simulating user input with conditional logic within a script, you can implement it to perform operations only when necessary.