U+227C\preceq≼<mo>≼</mo>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ≺ — Precedes
- ≤ — Less Than or Equal To
Use ≼ in the right format
Meaning and usage
Denotes a preorder or ordering relation that allows equality or equivalence.
Use it when the specific order relation has been defined for the objects being compared.
Pronunciation: precedes or equal to
Formula examples
a\preceq bHow to type Precedes or Equal To
- Windows
- Use Character Map and search for Precedes or Equal To, or paste the Unicode character (U+227C).
- macOS
- Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search for Precedes or Equal To.
- Microsoft Word
- In an equation, type \preceq and press Space when Word supports the command; otherwise insert the Unicode character.
- iPhone and iPad
- Copy and paste ≼, or use a math/LaTeX app. The standard iOS keyboard may not expose every mathematical symbol.
- Android
- Copy and paste ≼, or use a math keyboard or LaTeX editor. Keyboard layouts vary by device and app.
- Google Docs
- For plain text, paste ≼ or use Insert → Special characters. For structured math, use the equation editor and verify \preceq.
- Excel
- Paste ≼ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- Define the logical convention before using ≼; proof, programming, and Boolean-algebra sources may assign different precedence or direction.
- For plain text, copy ≼ as U+227C; for structured equations, use \preceq in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Precedes or Equal To.
When to use ≼
- Use ≼ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+227C.
- Use \preceq in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Precedes or Equal To is used in comparison, logic with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ≺ — Precedes
- ≤ — Less Than or Equal To
Font and compatibility notes
Glyph shape can vary by font. Verify the code point after copying, and prefer LaTeX or MathML for structured equations.
Continue the workflow
From Precedes or Equal To to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse ≼ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
\preceqfor LaTeX or the MathML snippet for accessible web equations. - Edit or convertOpen the value in the editor or converter without retyping it.
Review and source notes
Quality tier: specialist
Last reviewed: 2026-07-23
Review method: Catalog review of character identity and notation mappings.
Verified against: Unicode Standard, Unicode mathematical notation guidance, and established LaTeX/MathML syntax.
Reference sources
- The Unicode StandardUnicode Consortium — Character identity, encoding, names, and conformance.
- Unicode Character Code ChartsUnicode Consortium — Code points and official character charts.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Precedes or Equal To symbol mean?
Denotes a preorder or ordering relation that allows equality or equivalence.
What is the LaTeX command for ≼?
Use \preceq in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy ≼ as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.