∶
Unicode
U+2236LaTeX
\mathbin{:}HTML entity
∶HTML decimal
∶MathML
<mo>∶</mo>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ÷ — Division Sign
Use ∶ in the right format
Meaning and usage
Separates quantities in a ratio.
A colon is more common in everyday typing, while the ratio character is typographically distinct.
Pronunciation: ratio
Formula examples
2:3How to type Ratio
- Windows
- Use Character Map or enter U+2236 in a Unicode-aware app.
- macOS
- Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search by name.
- Microsoft Word
- Type \mathbin{:} in an equation and press Space.
- 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 \mathbin{:}.
- Excel
- Paste ∶ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- Keep ∶ attached to the correct quantity and follow the destination's unit, currency, spacing, and decimal conventions.
- For plain text, copy ∶ as U+2236; for structured equations, use \mathbin{:} in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Ratio.
When to use ∶
- Use ∶ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+2236.
- Use \mathbin{:} in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Ratio is used in currency measurement, basic math with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ÷ — Division Sign
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 Ratio to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse ∶ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
\mathbin{:}for 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 Ratio symbol mean?
Separates quantities in a ratio.
What is the LaTeX command for ∶?
Use \mathbin{:} in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy ∶ as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.