Em Dash Symbol
The em dash — (U+2014) is a punctuation mark used to create breaks, pauses, or emphasis in text.
U+2014
The em dash (—) is a punctuation symbol used when you want a strong break in a sentence. It’s common in writing and also useful in web and app text. This page helps you copy it and use the correct character codes.
Em Dash Symbol Meaning
An em dash (—) is a punctuation mark typically used to indicate a pause, interruption, or sudden change in thought. In writing, it can replace commas, parentheses, or a colon depending on style and emphasis. Many editors use it to set off an aside (“I decided—after a long talk—to wait.”) or to introduce explanations (“There is only one rule—be consistent.”). In digital content, using the em dash character (U+2014) ensures consistent rendering across fonts and platforms. If you need a shorter break, consider that the hyphen-minus (-) and en dash (–) are different characters.
Common uses
- •Setting off an interruption or aside in a sentence
- •Replacing commas or parentheses to add emphasis
- •Introducing a summary or explanation after a lead-in phrase
- •Showing a range in headings or UI labels when a typography system prefers em dashes
- •Separating clauses in informal writing, blog posts, and captions for a dramatic tone
Examples
— Em Dash (U+2014) Symbol Copy & Use
- —I knew the answer—because I checked the source.
- —The meeting is canceled—we’ll reschedule next week.
- —Your choice is simple—start now or start later.
- —She had one goal—to finish on time.
- —Note—this feature works best on desktop browsers.
Variations
Ready to copy
Technical codes
| Unicode | U+2014 | |
| HTML Entity | — | |
| HTML Code | — | |
| CSS | \2014 | |
| Alt Code | Alt + 8212 | |
| Decimal | 8212 |
How to type Em Dash Symbol (—)
On Windows
Hold Alt and type 8212 on the numeric keypad. In Word, type 2014 then press Alt + X.
On Mac
Switch to the Unicode Hex Input keyboard, then hold Option and type 2014. Or press Control + Command + Space and search.
On Linux
Press Control + Shift + U, type 2014, then press Enter or Space.
Anywhere
Copy — with the button above and paste it wherever you need it — this works on every device and in every app, with no keyboard shortcut to remember.
FAQ
What does the Em Dash symbol mean?
An em dash (—) is a punctuation mark typically used to indicate a pause, interruption, or sudden change in thought. In writing, it can replace commas, parentheses, or a colon depending on style and emphasis. Many editors use it to set off an aside (“I decided—after a long talk—to wait.”) or to introduce explanations (“There is only one rule—be consistent.”). In digital content, using the em dash character (U+2014) ensures consistent rendering across fonts and platforms. If you need a shorter break, consider that the hyphen-minus (-) and en dash (–) are different characters.
Is the em dash the same as a hyphen or en dash?
No. The hyphen-minus (-) is shorter, and the en dash (–) is also different. The em dash is specifically — with Unicode code point U+2014.
How do I type or insert the em dash in HTML?
You can use the HTML entity — to reliably render the em dash character.
What are the Unicode and escape values for the em dash?
The em dash is U+2014. It can be written as a CSS escape \\2014 and as a JavaScript escape \\u{2014}.
When should I use an em dash instead of parentheses or commas?
Use an em dash when you want a stronger interruption or emphasis—often to set off an aside or add an explanatory break—rather than a softer grouping like commas or parentheses.