| title | author | ms.author | ms.date | ms.topic | ms.prod |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
En dashes - Microsoft Style Guide |
pallep |
pallep |
01/19/2018 |
article |
non-product-specific |
Use an en dash:
-
To indicate a range of numbers, such as inclusive values, dates, or pages.
Example
2015–2017 -
For a minus sign.
Example
12 – 3 = 9 -
To indicate negative numbers.
Example
–79
Use an en dash (–) instead of a hyphen in a compound modifier when:
-
One element of the modifier is an open compound.
Examples
Windows 10–compatible products
dialog box–type options -
Two or more of the elements are made up of hyphenated compounds (a rare occurrence).
Don’t use an en dash to indicate an empty cell in a table.
Don’t use spaces on either side of an en dash.
Exception Surround an en dash with spaces when it's used as a minus sign in an equation or in a time stamp appearing in UI.
Examples
12 – 3 = 9
2:15 PM 12/1/16 ‒ 4:45 PM 4/1/16.
In text, don’t use an en dash in a range of times. Use to instead: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. In a schedule or listing, use an en dash with no spaces around it: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM.
Exception In a date range that includes two times and two dates, add spaces around the en dash.
Examples
2:15 AM‒4:45 PM 4/1/16 (time range on a single day)
2:15 PM 12/1/17 ‒ 4:45 PM 4/1/18 (range includes both time and date)
See also Date and time term collection