Need to use the euro symbol in your digital communications? Whether you’re drafting documents, updating your website, composing emails, or engaging in social media, knowing how to quickly access the euro (€) sign is essential. This guide provides you with all the methods to easily insert the euro symbol using your computer keyboard and mobile devices.
And if you’re dealing with international finances and need to send money in euros, consider services like Wise, which offers transparent and low-cost currency exchange.
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Understanding the Euro Sign: Symbolism and Usage
The euro sign, represented by the symbol €, is the currency symbol for the eurozone, representing one of the world’s major currencies.
According to the official European Union resources, the euro symbol’s design is inspired by the Greek letter epsilon (Є), linking back to the roots of European civilization and the beginning of the word ‘Europe’. The two parallel horizontal lines across the ‘C’ are intended to symbolize stability within the euro currency. The symbol was officially adopted in 1995 by the European Council, marking a significant step in European monetary integration.¹
| 💡 Further Reading: Explore global currency symbols |
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Euro Sign Placement and Abbreviation
In standard formatting, the euro sign is typically placed before the numerical amount, without any space in between. For instance, ten euros is correctly written as €10.
In the financial markets and international contexts, the euro currency is abbreviated to EUR. This abbreviation is universally recognized when checking exchange rates or listing prices, especially for international audiences. You might see ‘EUR’ on menus or price lists catering to tourists and international customers.
Typing the Euro Sign on Windows Keyboards
For users working on Windows PCs or laptops, inserting the euro sign is straightforward using a keyboard shortcut.
The primary method involves using the CTRL + ALT + 4 combination. Simply press and hold down the CTRL and ALT keys simultaneously, then press the number 4 key. This number 4 key can be found on the top row of your keyboard or on the numeric keypad to the right, if your keyboard has one.
A standard Windows keyboard layout highlighting the typical position of the number 4 key used for the euro symbol shortcut.
Typing the Euro Sign on macOS Keyboards
For those using Apple Mac devices, there’s also a simple keyboard shortcut to type the euro sign.
The standard shortcut for macOS is Option (or Alt) + 2. Press and hold the Option key (sometimes labeled as Alt) and then press the number 2 key.
On some US keyboard layouts for Macs, you might need to use Shift + Option + 2. This variation depends on the specific keyboard configuration and language settings.
Example of a Mac keyboard layout, indicating the number 2 key used in combination with the Option key to produce the euro symbol.
For quick access, you can also copy the euro symbol directly from here:
€
Inserting the Euro Sign on Mobile Devices (iOS and Android)
Typing on smartphones or tablets is also designed to be user-friendly when it comes to currency symbols.
For both iOS (Apple iPhones, iPads) and Android devices, the process is very similar. To access the euro sign, you need to switch your keyboard to the numbers and symbols layout. This is usually done by tapping a key labeled ‘123’ or ‘&%#’.
Once in the symbols view, you should find the € sign readily available among the options. If you don’t see it immediately, another helpful tip is to press and hold down the dollar ($) sign. This action typically brings up a pop-up menu displaying a range of currency symbols, including the euro (€), pound (£), and yen (¥) signs, among others.
A mobile device keyboard in symbol mode, illustrating the location of the euro symbol and the method to access additional currency symbols by long-pressing the dollar sign.
Inserting the Euro Sign in Word Processors Without Typing
In situations where keyboard shortcuts aren’t convenient, or you prefer using menus, word processors like Microsoft Word and Google Docs offer a straightforward method to insert special characters.
In both Microsoft Word and Google Docs, you can insert the euro sign through the ‘Insert’ menu.
For Microsoft Word:
- Navigate to the top menu bar and click on Insert.
- Look for and select Symbol (often found on the far right side of the ribbon).
- In the Symbol dialog box, you should be able to find and select the € symbol from the available characters.
For Google Docs:
- Go to the Insert menu in the top menu bar.
- Choose Special characters.
- In the Special characters window, you can search for ‘euro’ or browse through categories. To browse, select ‘Symbol’ and then ‘Currency’ from the dropdown menus to locate the euro sign.
After following these steps, you’ll be adept at using the euro sign across various platforms—whether on your computer, smartphone, or within word processing applications.
Sources used:
Sources last checked on date: 12-May-2023
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This article is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice from Wise Payments Limited or its affiliates. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice from a financial advisor or other qualified professional.
Wise makes no representations, warranties, or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information provided in this publication.
