rm (Remove)

Explanation

The rm command is used to remove (delete) files and directories. By default, it does not remove directories, but it can be instructed to do so recursively. Warning: Files deleted with rm are usually not recoverable, they do not go to a trash bin.

Basic Syntax

rm [OPTION]... FILE...

Common Flags and Options

Flag	Description
-r, -R, --recursive	Remove directories and their contents recursively.
-i	Prompt before every removal.
-f, --force	Ignore nonexistent files and arguments, never prompt.
-v, --verbose	Explain what is being done.

Real-world Examples

1. Remove a single file:

   rm unwanted_file.txt

2. Remove multiple files:

   rm file1.txt file2.txt

3. Remove a directory and all its contents (Use with caution!):

   rm -r my_directory/

4. Force remove a directory without prompting:

   rm -rf old_project/