How to Disable Spelling Suggestion Pop-Ups in Word for Mac
Question details
The user wants to stop the spelling suggestion pop-up menu from appearing when selecting misspelled words, while still keeping the spell checker active.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Editing and proofreading a document where misspelled words are marked with red underlines.
- Observed behavior
- When the user selects or clicks on a word with a red underline, a spelling suggestion pop-up appears automatically, which disrupts the typing and editing workflow.
Ensure you have updated Word for Mac to the latest version, as Microsoft frequently updates interface behaviors and settings.
Manage Spelling Preferences and Use Manual Dismissal
Since Word does not provide a standalone setting to disable just the suggestion pop-up, adjusting your spell check workflow and using keyboard shortcuts is the best workaround.
Currently, Microsoft Word for Mac does not offer a specific toggle to turn off the spelling suggestion pop-up while retaining the red-underline spell checker. Disabling 'AutoCorrect' also does not remove this pop-up menu.
To minimize interruptions, you can maintain standard spelling preferences and use quick dismissal techniques while editing.
Open Word, click 'Word' in the Mac menu bar, and select 'Preferences'. Click on 'Spelling & Grammar' and ensure 'Check spelling as you type' is enabled so you can still see spelling errors.
When typing or selecting a flagged word, press the 'Esc' key on your keyboard to instantly dismiss the spelling suggestion pop-up without moving your mouse.
If a correctly spelled word triggers the pop-up, right-click the word and select 'Ignore All' or 'Add to Dictionary'. This stops Word from flagging the word and showing the pop-up in the future.
Disable Live Spell Check and Proofread Manually
If the suggestion pop-ups are entirely too distracting for your typing flow, you can disable live spell checking and run it manually later.
Experience Distraction-Free Writing with WPS Office
If inflexible interface features like unchangeable spelling pop-ups in Microsoft Word disrupt your productivity, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly customizable environment that respects your workflow preferences.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install WPS Office for Mac.
- 2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Writer and open your existing Word (.docx) files seamlessly.
- 3. Customize Settings: Go to settings to configure your spelling and grammar checks exactly how you prefer them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Mac Terminal command to disable Word's spelling pop-up?
No, there are no known macOS Terminal commands or hidden defaults that isolate and disable the Word spelling suggestion pop-up. The pop-up is hardcoded into Word's spell check UI.
Why does the pop-up still appear after disabling AutoCorrect?
AutoCorrect and the spelling suggestion pop-up are distinct features. AutoCorrect automatically replaces text without asking, while the pop-up is part of the manual 'Check spelling as you type' feature. Turning off one does not turn off the other.
How can I temporarily hide spelling errors when sharing my screen?
To hide red underlines and prevent pop-ups during a presentation, go to Word Preferences > Spelling & Grammar, and check the box for 'Hide spelling errors in this document'.
