datafile diff

File Diff

file_diff

Compares two local text files and returns a bounded unified diff. Use when an agent needs to review changes or reconcile generated files. Scope: local filesystem only and read-only; each file is capped at 1 MB and the diff at 2,000 lines. Not for binary files or applying patches.

How to use file_diff

Provide only the required inputs below. Start with the smallest scope that answers the task, then review the risk properties before an agent executes the call.

Risk and execution properties

Read only: yes

Destructive: no

Idempotent: yes

Open world: no — operates locally or through configured services

Inputs

left_pathstringrequired

First text file.

right_pathstringrequired

Second text file.

context_linesinteger

Unchanged context lines per hunk. Max: 20.

Default: 3

Example input

{
  "left_path": "<string>",
  "right_path": "<string>",
  "context_lines": 3
}

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