"pathname is too long"

Somehow, probably through some badly programmed automaton. I acquired about 600gb of files that I want to delete. But they stay in my Trash. When I try to delete them I get the message: "Can't delete (file) because its pathname is too long." Yes, each folder contains a huge number of sub-folders with the files I want to delete at the very end. I've tried the Terminal sudo rm –R but it reports that no such file exists. I have about a dozen of these deeply cascaded folders that I want off my internal disk. Anyone got a recommendation? TIA


PS: When I try to "Put back" the folder, the message is that it no longer exists. Then how do I get these folder to not be listed?

Posted on Jul 7, 2022 5:56 AM

Reply

Similar questions

5 replies

Jul 7, 2022 1:32 PM in response to mariofromdanville

At this point am suggesting the below >>


Understand, we are all working Remotely from all around the world. 


Therefore, we do not have the On-Hands experience the User ( you ) has with this computer.


The next best thing for us to having an actual On-Hand experience  with this computer is to follow the steps below


Download the Application Etrecheck directly from a well Respected ASC Contributor. And Safe to use.


The application is free or paid from added features. 


Run the application with Full Disc Access ( Security & Privacy - Full Disc Access ).



It will take a Snap Shot -  both the hardware and software.


 The Report will Not Reveal Any Personal Information. 


Post back the Full Report - copy and paste - using the Additional Text Icon ( 3rd Icon to last )



We can have a look at the report for possible issues and may have possible suggestions to resolve the issues.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

"pathname is too long"

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.