How to Use # – the Symbol for Number

This video explains when and how to use #, the number sign in both American and British English. Abbreviations are explained and examples given of how to use #, the symbol for number, through sample sentences.

Here is a transcript of the video: When & How to Use a NUMBER SIGN (#)

Slide 2:
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Slide 3:
In American English, the number sign (#) is used as an abbreviation for the word ‘number’.

However, it is normally only used this way in informal writing.

Slide 4:
For example, when writing an email:

Hi John: Remember when you get to our street, we live at #21.

Slide 5:
Or when sending an SMS:

“Can you please send me John’s phone #.”

Slide 6:
Note:

There is no space between the number sign and the number.

#27
not
# 27

Slide 7:
In a formal business letter it would be written:

Dear Customer:

You will find our office at number 40, Market Street.

Slide 8:
In American English, the number sign (#) is also known as the pound sign and represents weight when written after a number. e.g.

“After exercising for two weeks, he lost 5#.”

Pound is also abbreviated as lb.

Slide 9:
In British English, the number sign (#) which appears on a telephone is called ‘hash’.

The abbreviation “No.” is often used for ‘number’ instead of #.

Slide 10:
For example, in an email:
Hi John: Remember when you get to our street, we live at
No. 21.

Slide 11:
So in summary, the number sign in American English is also known as a pound sign.
In British English, it’s also called ‘hash’.

In American English the number sign (#) is used as an abbreviation for the word ‘number’ in informal writing.

In British English the abbreviation ‘No.’ is more commonly used.

Slide 12:
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If you are interested in how to use the symbol for number (#), be sure to check this page which explains how to use another punctuation symbol:
When & How to Use a BULLETED LIST

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