Approximately-Equal Sign Shortcut (≈)
To type the approximately-equal sign (≈): press ⌥X (Option+X) on a Mac, or hold Alt and type 8776 on the numeric keypad on Windows. Use it like π ≈ 3.14.
| Action | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approximately-Equal ≈ | ⌥X | Alt+8776 | |
| Approximately-Equal (copy) | ≈ | ≈ |
The approximately-equal sign on Mac vs Windows
The approximately-equal sign (≈) means "is roughly equal to", as in π ≈ 3.14. On a Mac press ⌥X (Option+X). On Windows, hold Alt and type 8776 on the numeric keypad, then release. No number pad? Copy the ≈ above, or in Microsoft Word type 2248 then press Alt+X.
When to use ≈
Use ≈ for rounded or estimated values in readable math and science text. It is distinct from the equals sign (=), which means exactly equal.
FAQ
What is the approximately-equal sign shortcut?
On a Mac press ⌥X (Option+X). On Windows hold Alt and type 8776 on the numeric keypad, then release Alt.
How do I type ≈ without a number pad?
Copy the ≈ from this page, or in Word type 2248 and press Alt+X. On Mac ⌥X works on any keyboard.
What is the difference between ≈ and =?
= means exactly equal; ≈ means approximately or roughly equal, used for rounded values like π ≈ 3.14.