When kernel external errors are available they are included in the err(3) library function messages. In addition to the extended error itself, the kernel also tracks the kernel file and line number at which the error was generated. This additional information is not included in the err(3) messages unless the EXTERROR_VERBOSE environment variable is present. Currently, when EXTERROR_VERBOSE is present, all the internal extended error information associated with the error is printed most of which is redundant with the formatted error message printed by err(3). This change will add only the kernel file and line number to the err(3) message when EXTERROR_VERBOSE is present and set to "brief".
In summary:
setenv EXTERROR_VERBOSE brief
adds just the kernel file and line number to the err(3) message.
Kernel strings not available or setenv EXTERROR_VERBOSE
produces the full external error state to be added to the err(3) message