What does a circle with a slash through it mean?

In summary, the circle with a slash in front of length measurements in European engineering publications represents a diameter, such as in the example of Ø15 x 1.12 mm. It is often used to distinguish the letter "O" from the number "0" and can also represent the Norwegian/Danish character Ø. However, in this context, it most likely refers to a disc with a diameter of 15mm and thickness of 1.12mm.
  • #1
Wisco52
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0
I am reading European engineering publications, and the circle with a slash shows up about half of the time in front of length measurements. For example, Ø15 x 1.12 mm. What does this mean?
 
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  • #2
Diameter.
 
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Likes e.bar.goum
  • #3
Makes sense, thanks.
 
  • #4
Could be a representation of digit ZERO.
 
  • #5
Diameter is probably correct in your case but Ø is often used to distinguish zero form O. I have also seen it used for the greek letter phi on occasion.
 
  • #6
Wisco52 said:
For example, Ø15 x 1.12 mm.
The format would make sense if it described a 15mm diameter bolt, threaded with a 1.12mm pitch thread.
But 1.12mm is not a standard metric pitch.
 
  • #7
It is a left-over from ancient computer programming practice. Back when data was entered by writing on paper than having it keypunched (are you old enough to know what a keypunch was?) and all alphabetic data was upper case, you needed some convention to distinguish O (letter) from 0 (zero) They look the same on paper, on the punch card, and on many printers. That goes back 50 years - I still do it out of habit.
 
  • #8
... and to add to the confusion: Ø is a Norwegian/Danish character, (Oe ligature) equivalent to the Ö in German and Swedish.
 
  • #9
Wisco52 said:
I am reading European engineering publications, and the circle with a slash shows up about half of the time in front of length measurements. For example, Ø15 x 1.12 mm. What does this mean?
this means a disc of diameter 15mm and thickness 1.12mm
 
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Likes Tom.G

FAQ: What does a circle with a slash through it mean?

What does a circle with a slash through it mean?

A circle with a slash through it is commonly known as the "no" symbol or the "prohibition" symbol. It is a visual representation indicating that something is not allowed or prohibited.

Where is a circle with a slash through it typically used?

This symbol is often used in public places such as roads, buildings, and products to communicate rules or restrictions. It can also be seen on electronic devices, software, and websites to indicate actions that are not available or allowed.

What is the origin of the circle with a slash through it symbol?

The origin of this symbol can be traced back to the early 20th century when it was used in the United States to mark alcohol during the prohibition era. It gained widespread recognition and has since been used to represent prohibition or negation in various contexts.

Is there a difference between a circle with a slash through it and a circle with an "X" through it?

While both symbols may convey a similar meaning of prohibition or negation, they are not always interchangeable. The circle with a slash through it is typically used to indicate something that is not allowed or prohibited, while the circle with an "X" through it is often used to indicate something that is incorrect or invalid.

Are there any variations of the circle with a slash through it symbol?

Yes, there are variations of this symbol that may have different meanings or connotations. For example, a circle with a slash through it and a person's face may indicate a "no entry" or "no trespassing" sign. Additionally, a circle with a slash through it and a specific object or action may represent a prohibition on that specific item or activity.

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