Punctuation: Use of Slash
Slash (/)
A slash, which is also known as a forward slash, a virgule, or even an oblique dash, has a number of uses. The slash can be used to separate lines in a song or poem when they are written in a continuous line. The slash (/) is also used in place of the word or. The slash can also be used to show two contradictory notions.
The slash punctuation rules and examples:
(1) Use slashes to separate parts of the internet (web) addresses and file names for some computer programs.
Example: http://www.example.com/
(2) Use slashes for fractions
Example: 1/3 = one-third
(3) Use a slash to separate the day, month, and year in date.
Examples:
- w/o = without
- n/a or N/A = not applicable or not available
- R/C = radio control
(4) Use a slash to show the word “per” in measurements.
Example: 80 miles/hour = 80 miles per hour
(5) Use a slash to separate lines of poetry or rhymes in regular text.
Example: Twinkle, twinkle, little star, / How I wonder what you are. / Up above the world so high, / Like a diamond in the sky.
(6) Use a slash to show alternatives in a sentence.
Example: Please press your browser’s Refresh/Reload button.
