The approximately symbol (≈) is incredibly useful when you need to show that values are close to each other but not exactly equal. Let me show you how to use it.
What Does It Mean?
The approximately symbol means "approximately equal to." It is used when a value is close to another value but not precisely the same. For example:
- π ≈ 3.14 (pi is approximately 3.14)
- 100 ≈ 98 (100 is approximately 98)
- The meeting starts at ≈ 3 PM
How to Type the Approximately Symbol
On Windows
- Alt Code: Hold Alt and type 247 on the numeric keypad (not the number row)
- Character Map: Search for "character map" in Start, find ≈, and copy it
- Keyboard Shortcut: Alt + 8776 (works in some applications)
On Mac
- Keyboard Shortcut: Option + X
- Emoji Keyboard: Control + Command + Space, then search "approximately"
On Mobile (iPhone and Android)
- Hold the equal sign: On most keyboards, hold the = key and slide to the approximately symbol
- Emoji keyboard: Switch to emoji keyboard and search "approximately"
Using Copy and Paste
Simply copy this: ≈
You can paste it anywhere you need it.
HTML Codes
- HTML Entity: ≈
- Decimal: ≈
- Hex: ≈
Common Uses
Mathematics and Science
Used to show approximate values when exact precision is not needed or not possible:
- √2 ≈ 1.414
- The speed of light ≈ 299,792,458 m/s
Everyday Language
In casual writing, it means "about" or "around":
- We have ≈ 50 people coming to the party
- The cost will be ≈ $100
Engineering and Statistics
Shows tolerances, measurements within a range, or estimated values:
- The part measures ≈ 5mm
- The result ≈ 75% of the population
Related Symbols
There are a few similar symbols you might also find useful:
- ∼ (tilde) - similar to approximately
- ≃ - asymptotically equal
- ≅ - approximately equal or congruent
- ≠ - not equal to
Tips for Using It
- Use it sparingly in formal writing - write out "approximately" if space allows
- In technical or mathematical contexts, it is perfectly appropriate
- When typing, make sure your keyboard shortcut works in your specific application
- On mobile, the gesture method (holding =) is usually fastest
The Bottom Line
The approximately symbol is a handy shorthand for showing values that are close but not exact. Now you know multiple ways to type it on any device!