# In a Kyverno validate pattern, what does the X() negation anchor mean, as in 'X(hostPath): "null"'?

Kyverno, Hard (Expert), Validation. https://k8wiz.com/uquiz/in-a-kyverno-validate-pattern-what-does-the-x-negation-anchor-mean-as-in-xhostpath-null

- A. The field must not be present
- B. The field must equal the string X
- C. The field is optional
- D. Validation is skipped if the field exists

**Answer:** The field must not be present

**Explanation:** X() fails validation when the tagged field exists, whatever its value, so X(hostPath) under volumes rejects any hostPath volume. The value after it is ignored, and "null" is the convention. Other anchors include () for conditions, ^() for existence in lists, and =() for checking a field only when it's present.