Document Editing Problems

How to Insert a Nonbreaking Double Hyphen in Word 365

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to insert a nonbreaking double hyphen in Word 365 for specific typewriter-style formatting or precise typographic accuracy.

Product: Microsoft Word 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Formatting a document where hyphens must stay together on the same line without breaking at the margin.
Observed behavior: Word 365 lacks a universal standard shortcut specifically for a nonbreaking double hyphen, requiring workarounds like manual shortcuts or symbol insertion.

Before you start

Consider whether you strictly require a double hyphen for a vintage typewriter effect, or if a modern typographic em dash will better serve your document's stylistic needs.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Keyboard Shortcut for a Nonbreaking Hyphen

You can use a built-in shortcut to insert a nonbreaking character directly into your text without navigating menus.

While Word doesn't have a single button for a nonbreaking double hyphen, you can use the standard nonbreaking hyphen shortcut twice.

Position the cursor

Click exactly where you want the nonbreaking hyphen to appear in your document text.

Execute the shortcut

Press Alt + Shift + - (the minus key) on your keyboard. Depending on your configuration, Ctrl + Shift + - may also work.

Repeat to create a double hyphen

Type the shortcut a second time immediately after the first to place two nonbreaking hyphens side-by-side.

Solution 2

Insert via the Symbol Dialog Box

Use the Symbol menu to manually find and insert nonbreaking hyphens or em dashes if keyboard shortcuts are not functioning.

Solution 3

Utilize an Em Dash and Monospaced Font

If you are trying to replicate a typewriter style, use an em dash formatted with a specific monospaced font.

Seamless Document Formatting

Effortlessly Insert Special Characters with WPS Writer

WPS Office provides intuitive and easily accessible tools for inserting standard typographic symbols, em dashes, and nonbreaking characters, making document formatting flawless.

1. Open WPS Writer: Launch WPS Office and open your text document.
2. Access the Insert Tab: Click on the Insert tab located on the top ribbon menu.
3. Open the Symbol Dialog: Click on Symbol and choose Custom Symbols or More Symbols.
4. Insert the Character: Switch to the Special Characters tab, select the Nonbreaking Hyphen or Em Dash, and click Insert.

Highly compatible with Microsoft Word formats (.docx, .doc).Built-in, comprehensive Symbol and Special Character dialog box for fast access.Lightweight, fast, and completely free for everyday editing tasks.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my double hyphens automatically change to a long dash in Word?

This happens because of Word's AutoFormat feature, which automatically converts two consecutive hyphens into an en dash or em dash. You can disable this by navigating to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options > AutoFormat As You Type, and unchecking 'Hyphens with dash'.

What is the difference between an em dash and a double hyphen?

An em dash is a standard typographic punctuation mark used to indicate a break in thought. A double hyphen is a legacy typewriter convention used to simulate an em dash when specialized keys were not available on physical typewriters.

Can I create a custom shortcut for a specific nonbreaking double-hyphen symbol?

Yes. You can assign custom shortcuts in Word by opening the Insert > Symbol > More Symbols dialog, selecting your desired character, clicking the Shortcut Key button, and pressing a new key combination of your choice.

Document & File Issues