Office for Mac Issues

Can You Use Ctrl+Click for Hyperlinks in Word for Mac?

John Wilson Sep 27, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to know if they can configure Word for Mac to require a modifier key (like Ctrl or Command) to open hyperlinks, preventing accidental clicks.

Can You Use Ctrl+Click for Hyperlinks in Word for Mac?

Product: Microsoft Word
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Attempting to select or edit text that contains a hyperlink without automatically launching the web browser.
Observed behavior: Word for Mac automatically opens hyperlinks upon a standard left-click and lacks the Windows setting to require a Ctrl+Click or Command+Click.

Before you start

Unlike the Windows version, Word for Mac does not have a built-in option to require a modifier key for opening hyperlinks. You will need to use alternative mouse or keyboard techniques to safely interact with linked text.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Context Menu to Edit or Remove Hyperlinks

The safest way to interact with a hyperlink without opening it is by using the right-click menu.

Since a standard left-click will launch your default web browser, utilizing the right-click (or Control-click) context menu allows you to modify the link's properties or text safely.

Hover over the hyperlink

Move your mouse cursor directly over the linked text without clicking.

Open the context menu

Right-click (or hold Control and click) on the hyperlink to reveal the dropdown menu.

Select the edit option

Choose 'Edit Hyperlink' from the list to modify the URL or display text, or select 'Remove Hyperlink' to turn it back into plain text.

Use the Context Menu to Edit or Remove Hyperlinks

Quick Removal: If you just want to remove the link temporarily, you can also copy the text, paste it without formatting, and delete the original.

Solution 2

Use Keyboard Arrow Keys for Safe Selection

If you need to edit the text surrounding or inside the hyperlink, using the keyboard avoids the mouse click trigger entirely.

Solution 3

Submit a Feature Request to Microsoft

Since the lack of a modifier-key requirement is a built-in limitation of Word for Mac, submitting feedback can encourage Microsoft to add the feature in future updates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I require Command+Click for hyperlinks in Word for Mac?

No, Microsoft Word for Mac currently does not offer a setting to require Command+Click or Ctrl+Click to open a hyperlink. Hyperlinks will open automatically with a standard single left-click.

How do I stop Word for Mac from creating hyperlinks automatically?

You can disable automatic hyperlinks by going to the top menu bar, selecting Word > Preferences > AutoCorrect, navigating to the 'AutoFormat as You Type' tab, and unchecking the box for 'Internet and network paths with hyperlinks'.

How can I remove multiple hyperlinks at once on a Mac?

To remove all hyperlinks from a document, press Command+A to select all text, then press Command+6. This shortcut unlinks all active hyperlinks and converts them back to regular text.

Why does the Windows version of Word have this feature but Mac doesn't?

The Windows and Mac versions of Microsoft Office are built on different codebases. Over the years, certain specific settings, like the Ctrl+Click modifier for links, were never fully integrated into the macOS build of Word.

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