Hyphens and Dashes in Numbers
Hyphen or Dash?
Writers are often unsure whether to use a hyphen (-) or a dash (–) in numbers and dates.The Quick Answer
Use a hyphen, unless you're giving a to–from range.- We lived there 1971–1974. (This is a dash, not a hyphen.)
Table of Contents
- Hyphens in Numbers
- Dashes in Numbers
- Test Time!
Hyphens in Numbers
Hyphens are used in numbers:(1) When writing numbers in full
- two hundred thirty-two
- ninety-six
(2) When writing fractions in full
- one-third
- two-thirds
- three-fifths
(3) When dividing long numbers (e.g., serial numbers, telephone numbers)
- 555-1234-1234
- X1G44-4453E-QW334-QPLO4
Dashes in Numbers
Dashes are used between numbers to show ranges. For example:- 0800–0900 hrs
- 2014–2020
- 10–15 minutes
- 100–120 staff
Learning Resources
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Test Time!
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