₁
Unicode
U+2081LaTeX
_1HTML entity
HTML decimal
₁MathML
<mn>₁</mn>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ² — Superscript Two
Use ₁ in the right format
Meaning and usage
A Unicode lowered digit one used for indices and labels.
Use LaTeX or semantic markup when the subscript is part of a larger mathematical expression.
Pronunciation: subscript one
Formula examples
x_1a_1How to type Subscript One
- Windows
- Use Character Map or enter U+2081 in a Unicode-aware app.
- macOS
- Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search by name.
- Microsoft Word
- Type _1 in an equation and press Space.
- iPhone and iPad
- Copy and paste ₁, or use a math/LaTeX app. The standard iOS keyboard may not expose every mathematical symbol.
- Android
- Copy and paste ₁, or use a math keyboard or LaTeX editor. Keyboard layouts vary by device and app.
- Google Docs
- For plain text, paste ₁ or use Insert → Special characters. For structured math, use the equation editor and verify _1.
- Excel
- Paste ₁ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- Unicode superscript or subscript glyphs such as ₁ are plain text; use structured LaTeX or MathML scripts when nesting, accessibility, or reliable layout matters.
- For plain text, copy ₁ as U+2081; for structured equations, use _1 in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Subscript One.
When to use ₁
- Use ₁ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+2081.
- Use _1 in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Subscript One is used in super sub with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ² — Superscript Two
Font and compatibility notes
Font coverage varies; verify the code point and destination rendering before publication.
Continue the workflow
From Subscript One to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse ₁ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
_1for 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: catalog
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 Subscript One symbol mean?
A Unicode lowered digit one used for indices and labels.
What is the LaTeX command for ₁?
Use _1 in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy ₁ as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.