Recursive editing occurs when you are allowed to edit text while an editor command is executing. The mode line of the recursively edited buffer is enclosed in square brackets. For example, when using the command Query Replace, the Ctrl+R option can be used to edit the current instance of the target string (that is, enter a recursive edit). Details of commands used to exit a recursive edit are given below.
Exit Recursive Edit Editor Command
Arguments: None
Key sequence: Meta+Ctrl+Z
Exits a level of recursive edit, returning to the original command. An error is signaled if not in a recursive edit.
Abort Recursive Edit Editor Command
Arguments: None
Key sequence: Ctrl+]
Aborts a level of recursive edit, quitting the unfinished command immediately. An error is signaled if not in a recursive edit.
Editor User Guide (Macintosh version) - 01 Dec 2021 19:35:09