How to Stop Word from Converting (c), (e), and (r) into Symbols
Question details
The user needs to prevent Microsoft Word from automatically changing specific letters typed in parentheses into special symbols.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Typing structured documents where specific letter combinations in parentheses, such as (c), (e), and (r), must remain exactly as typed.
- Observed behavior
- Word's AutoCorrect feature automatically replaces the typed text (c), (e), and (r) with the copyright (©), euro (€), and registered trademark (®) symbols.
Determine whether you want to permanently disable these symbol conversions for all future documents or simply reverse the change for a single instance in your current file.
Permanently Delete AutoCorrect Symbol Entries
Remove the specific replacement rules in Word's settings so the conversions never happen again automatically.
This method updates your global Word settings. Once deleted, you will be able to type (c), (e), and (r) without Word intervening. You can always re-add these entries later if you change your mind.
Launch Microsoft Word. Click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner, then select 'Options' at the bottom of the menu.
In the Word Options dialog box, click on 'Proofing' in the left-hand pane. Then, click the 'AutoCorrect Options...' button on the right side.
In the AutoCorrect dialog, look for the list of automatic replacements. Locate the entries for (c), (e), and (r). Select each entry one by one and click the 'Delete' button.
Click 'OK' in the AutoCorrect dialog, and then click 'OK' again in the Word Options window to apply your changes.
Temporarily Reverse the Conversion Using Undo
Use a quick keyboard shortcut to undo the AutoCorrect action for a single instance without altering your permanent settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I restore the AutoCorrect symbols after deleting them?
Yes, you can easily restore them. Go back to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options. In the 'Replace' box, type the text you want to trigger the change (like (c)), and in the 'With' box, insert the corresponding symbol (like ©). Click 'Add', then click 'OK'.
Why does Word automatically change (c) to a copyright symbol in the first place?
This happens because Word's AutoCorrect feature comes pre-configured with common shortcuts. These defaults are designed to help users quickly type special characters and symbols that are otherwise difficult to find on a standard keyboard.
Is there a way to turn off AutoCorrect entirely in Word?
Yes. If you prefer Word not to make any automatic text replacements, go to File > Options > Proofing > AutoCorrect Options, and uncheck the box that says 'Replace text as you type'. This disables the feature completely.
