[Solved] You run wc -l file.txt but get an error: wc: invalid option -- 'x'. What is the likely cause? — Ans: You typed an invalid option like -x by mistake | Linux CLI

Linux CLI - Viewing and Editing Files

You run wc -l file.txt but get an error: wc: invalid option -- 'x'. What is the likely cause?

AThe file <code>file.txt</code> does not exist

BYou forgot to specify the filename

CYou typed an invalid option like <code>-x</code> by mistake

DThe <code>wc</code> command is not installed

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Analyze the error message
The error says "invalid option -- 'x'", meaning wc received an option -x which it does not recognize.
Step 2: Identify common causes
This usually happens if you mistype an option, for example -x instead of -l or -w.
Final Answer:
You typed an invalid option like -x by mistake -> Option C
Quick Check:
Invalid option error means wrong flag [OK]

Quick Trick: Check option spelling carefully if wc shows invalid option error [OK]

Common Mistakes:

MISTAKES

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