bash: test if sort supports -h flag

Question

I have a function in my bash that has a sort -h but on one of my setups sort doesn't support the -h flag.

How do I test that so I can provide an else to have a sort without -h?

What is the output in a machine with a `sort` that supports it, and in a machine with a `sort` that doesn't? Also, what is the return code of each one? (you can check that running `echo $?` after the command) — Valmiky Arquissandas, Aug 09 '14 at 14:36
@ValmikyArquissandas thanks, that actually answered my question. — laggingreflex, Aug 09 '14 at 14:42

score 1 · Accepted Answer · answered Aug 09 '14 at 14:47

You can check the output in a machine with a sort that supports it, and in a machine with a sort that doesn't. Comparing them may help you understand whether they support the option or not.

You can also check the return code of each one, running echo $? after the command. If they differ, you can use that on your favor.

score 0 · Answer 2 · answered Aug 09 '14 at 20:57

0

You can check with this if statement.

if (echo | sort -h > /dev/null 2>&1); then echo "yes"; else echo "no"; fi;

answered Aug 09 '14 at 20:57

Jason

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bash: test if sort supports -h flag

2 Answers2