oil ☆

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Description:
Bash-compatible Unix shell with more consistent syntax and semantics

Type: Formula | Tracked Since: Dec 28, 2025

Links: Homepage | formulae.brew.sh

Category: Developer tools

Tags: shell bash unix scripting oil

Install: brew install oil

About:
Oil is a Unix shell with a Bash-compatible mode, designed to improve upon shell scripting with a more consistent and readable syntax. It aims to solve common shell pitfalls by providing safer defaults, structured data handling, and clearer error messages. The shell also includes a command-line interface for interactive use and data processing.

Key Features:

Bash-compatible for easy migration
Simpler, more consistent language design
Structured data handling (JSON, CSV)
Improved error messages and safety

Use Cases:

Writing safer and more maintainable shell scripts
Interactive command-line exploration and automation
Processing structured data from the command line

Alternatives:

bash – The ubiquitous standard; Oil focuses on fixing inconsistencies and safety issues.
zsh – Popular for interactive use; Oil focuses on scripting consistency and language design.
fish – User-friendly interactive shell; Oil maintains Bash compatibility for scripts.

Version History

Detected	Version	Rev	Change	Commit
Sep 16, 2025 8:50am		0	VERSION_BUMP	263e3d8d
Nov 10, 2024 9:42pm		0	VERSION_BUMP	c44b7094