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Is there a common abbreviation for "with or without"? e.g. _w/wo_ or _w/w/o_

English Language & Usage Asked by evan.bovie on May 16, 2021

Is there a common abbreviation for "with or without"? e.g. w/wo or w/w/o

Obviously, something this complex is best written in full form, but I’m looking for something to use in space constrained applications. For example, I use a product management system that limits the length of product feature titles, and I’d like to convey in the title that this feature could be used with or without another feature.

Could anyone recommend a preferred substitute?

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2 Answers

If this is for use with a limited audience, especially one which can be directed to a glossary of abbreviations, then w/wo could be a decent option. I've used it myself, and seen it used, so it wouldn't seem strange to me. But as usual, context matters.

Answered by Jim Mack on May 16, 2021

It depends how much space you have, but I’ve used ‘w±o’ or ‘w∓o’ before to mean ‘with or without’ when space was exceedingly tight. You wouldn't need a slash after it, but could use it if you’d like.

Like suppose the whole gang is starving one hot summer afternoon and so you tool on down to your local Doggie Heaven™ drive-in restaurant. When you get there, you notice that their menu advertises:

? Baskets come w/fries+slaw
? Naked dogs come w/o buns
? Fries and rings available w±o/salt

And so you order yourself up:

1 redhot basket w/rings
1 bratwurst basket w/kraut
1 naked polish w/chili
3 redhots w/o onions
1 knockwurst w/catsup

Or at least, that’s what your curbside food attendant writes down on their tiny little notepad, where space is dear and time of the essence.

Answered by tchrist on May 16, 2021

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