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Comparing and Merging Files

2.3.1 Context Format

The context output format shows several lines of context around the lines that differ. It is the standard format for distributing updates to source code.

To select this output format, use the `-C lines', `--context[=lines]', or `-c' option. The argument lines that some of these options take is the number of lines of context to show. If you do not specify lines, it defaults to three. For proper operation, patch typically needs at least two lines of context.

2.3.1.1 Detailed Description of Context Format		A detailed description of the context output format.
2.3.1.2 An Example of Context Format		Sample output in context format.
2.3.1.3 An Example of Context Format with Less Context		Another sample with less context.