helix:tldr:874f0

The command ":q!" is used in a text editor, specifically in the Vi/Vim editor, to forcefully exit the editor without saving any changes made to the file being edited.

Here's a breakdown of the command:

• ":" is the command mode indicator in Vi/Vim editor. It is used to start a command.
• "q" specifies the command "quit," which means to exit the editor.
• "!" is an option used with the "q" command to force the exit without saving any changes.
• "" is the key press that confirms and executes the command.

So, when you enter ":q!" in Vi/Vim editor, it immediately quits the editor, discarding any unsaved changes you might have made to the file. It is a way of exiting abruptly, even if the file hasn't been saved.