The Typographic Symbol

Understanding the uses and functions of symbols is essential in maximizing the function of typography (excluding the discussion on: fonts, kerning, typestyle, etc.). Each symbol must have their respective meanings. Therefore in this article I'm going to share a little knowledge about typographic symbol.

Ampersand

An ampersand (or epershand) "&" is a logogram representing the conjunction word "and". The symbol is a ligature of the letters in et, Latin for "and", Its function is as part of a name, not as a separator. Usually used for formal purposes (company name, movie, book) and to indicate the name of the spouse.

Pilcrow

The pilcrow (¶), also called the paragraph mark, paragraph sign, paraph, alinea (Latin: a linea, "off the line"), or blind P, is a typographical character commonly used to denote individual paragraphs. This symbol coincidentally shaped like the letter 'P' (Paragraph) upside down, it was originally shaped the letter 'C' (Capitulum / Chapter). Along with the times, form the letter C was added a line to make it look more unique.

Asterisk

The number of legs on Asterisk can vary, usually 5 in sans-serif letters, 6 in serif letters, and 6-8 for the letter script. This symbol serves as a sign of footnotes, and it is usually placed on slightly more than the ascender (superscript).

Number Sign

The number sign is used to represent the word 'number'. example # 1 means number 1. This sign is often interpreted as one marker of sharps in the scales because its shape is very similar. The difference is: the number sign has 2 perfect horizontal line, while the sharp lines on the sign is more oblique (diagonal).

At Sign

Is an abbreviation of the commercial language, "at the rate of". Initially often used to indicate the price per unit, but now people tend to use the at sign as a bookmark location, especially in email.

Section Sign

This symbol is shaped like a combination of two 's' letters. It is used to appoint or direct the reader to specific sections within a document. Often used in conjunction with Pilcrow (paragraph).