uim

uim [options...] [module-name]

-h, --help
    Show summary of options and exit

-V, --version
    Print version information and exit

-p, --program=<PROGRAM>
    Set client program name (default: uim)

-u, --update
    Update context immediately

-c, --context=<CONTEXT-ID>
    Set specific context ID for the session

The uim command is part of the Universal Input Method (UIM) framework, a lightweight, multilingual input method platform for X11 and Wayland environments on Linux/Unix systems.

It launches specified input method modules (e.g., anthy, romaji, m17n) as helper processes, primarily invoked by UIM toolbar applets like uim-toolbar-gtk or applications via UIM protocols.

UIM supports numerous languages including Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and others through modular engines. The command manages context-specific input sessions, allowing seamless switching between conversion modes. It integrates with GTK, Qt, and console apps via bridges like uim-xim or uim-qt-immodule.

Key use cases include starting IM processes for text editors or browsers, updating contexts on-the-fly, and customizing per-program behavior. Configuration is handled separately via uim-pref-gtk or ~/.uim files.

Requires UIM framework installed and running (e.g., via uim-system-config). Module names must match available UIM engines; use without module-name defaults to system default. Not for direct interactive use—typically called by toolbars or apps.

Examples: romaji (Romaji Kana), anthy (Japanese), hangul (Korean), rime (Chinese). List via uim-list-immodules.

uim -p gtk3 -c 1 anthy launches Anthy for GTK3 app context 1.

UIM project initiated in 2002 by YamaKen for Japanese input needs. First stable release ~2005. Evolved to support 50+ languages/modules by 2010s. Maintained by ARPHOD community; latest versions integrate Wayland support.

uim-toolbar(1), uim-pref-gtk(1), uim-xim(1), ibus(1), fcitx(1)