For a web address, use forward slashes to separate the domain from the scheme and directory path:
| Scheme (often hidden) | Domain | Directory path | File path |
| https:// | www.plainenglishfoundation.com | /documents/ | PEF_doc.pdf |
Forward slashes /
A forward slash generally marks a division between words and sometimes numbers. In the pre-computer era, it was mostly reserved for street addresses and for rates and measurements. With the advent of the internet, it has become increasingly familiar as part of web addresses.
The symbol is often pronounced as ‘slash’ or ‘stroke’. It is also known as a solidus, virgule or oblique.
This entry summarises the key areas for using or not using the forward slash. See the links below for more detailed individual entries in other sections of the ASG.
Web addresses
Use a slash to separate the domain from other parts of the URL
www.books.org/whats-new
https://www.banking.com
Street addresses
Use a slash to separate the unit or level number from the street number
2/19 Brown St
106/34–36 Greendale Ave
Rates and measurements
Use a slash to show 'per' where space is limited
3 metres per second
3 m/s
$10 per dozen
$10/doz
Alternatives
Use a slash in place of 'or'
yes/no
post/email
Year spans
Use an en dash, not a slash, in calendar and financial year spans
1939–45
2019–20
And/or
Generally avoid ‘and/or’
you or me
you or me, or both of us
He/she and Sir/Madam
Replace these binary constructions with more neutral language
He/she
They
Dear Sir/Madam
Dear Hiring Manager