Set Minus ∖

∖ (U+2216) is a standard Unicode character that you can copy and paste anywhere text is accepted. This page provides a concise reference with safe tips, internal links, and practical guidance so you can use it reliably across apps and platforms.

What it is and where it’s used: Set Minus is part of the Symbols family (block: Mathematical Operators). If you need styled or decorative alternatives, try our Fancy Text tool to generate compatible text that works in most modern interfaces.

History & usage: The symbol SET MINUS (code point U+2216) is used in math and related fields. It belongs to the Mathematical Operators block and appears in many fonts. In formulas it marks a set operation called set difference, which removes elements of one set from another. It is also used for subtraction in some contexts, especially when the focus is on sets or relations rather than numbers alone. In user interfaces, the symbol can indicate removal, exclusion, or a negated option. It is treated as a common symbol for operations or comparisons in formulas and interfaces, making it recognizable across disciplines. Authors choose it when they want to show what remains after removing items from a set or when signaling an exclusion rule. The symbol is typically straight and simple, so it fits in compact formulas and labeled controls. While its primary role is mathematical, it also helps clarify statements in documents and software that handle collections, permissions, or eligibility. When seen, readers interpret it as a clear sign of subtraction or exclusion within a formal or interactive setting.

Copy and input: the quickest method is to copy the character here. You can also insert it by its codepoint U+2216 in many development tools or editors. Some operating systems provide a character viewer or input palette that lets you search by name or code and insert the glyph into documents.

Display and fallback: if you see an empty box (tofu) or a placeholder rectangle, the active font might not include this codepoint. Switching to a font with broader Unicode coverage or using a fallback font usually fixes the issue. On the web, ensure the page’s font stack includes a general‑purpose fallback.

Related references: browse the Categories for similar characters. When choosing a symbol, prefer the official codepoint for semantic clarity and better compatibility with search, copy, and accessibility tooling.

See our category page for related symbols.