The slash ( / ), also known as the virgule, has several uses, but many of them should be avoided in formal writing. Always remember not to use a backslash ( \ ) in place of a slash.
Poetry
One widely accepted use of the slash in formal writing relates to poetry. The slash, with one space on either side, indicates a line break.
Example:
In the words of Emily Dickinson, “Hope is the thing with feathers / That perches in the soul.”
Meaning “per”
The slash can serve as shorthand for “per.”
Examples:
- The cost is $50/person.
- The class runs from 9 a.m./day to 5 p.m./day.
Meaning “and”
The slash can also be used as shorthand for “and.”
Example:
- She is pursuing an MD/PhD program at Stanford.
Meaning “or”
The slash can represent “or,” but phrases like “and/or” can often create ambiguity and are best avoided. A clearer rewrite is recommended when possible.
Examples:
- All participants must bring their parent/guardian signature.
- You can choose to attend the morning/evening session.
- The committee may recommend policies on employee benefits and/or workplace safety.
In place of the Latin preposition “cum”
The Latin preposition “cum” means “with” or “alongside.” The slash can convey the same meaning in informal contexts.
Examples:
- The conference room/cafeteria is available for meetings.
- She created a novel/cookbook hybrid.
Abbreviations
Certain abbreviations are formed with a slash.
Examples:
- b/w (between)
- R&D (research and development)
- w/o (without)
Fractions
The slash is used to separate the numerator from the denominator in fractions.
Example:
- You need to mix 1/2 cup of water with the ingredients.
Conflict or Connection
The slash can indicate a conflict or connection between two ideas or items, although the en dash can often serve a similar purpose.
Examples:
- The London/New York flight was delayed.
- This discussion addresses the freedom/restriction debate.
Two-Year Spans
The slash is sometimes used to indicate a time span covering two years.
Examples:
- The report analyzes trends from 2020/21.
- The school year for 2019/20 saw significant changes in policy.