Caret

usgb/ˈkærət/
noun

A symbol (^) used in writing and printing to show where something needs to be inserted.

She put a caret in the sentence to show where a new word needed to be added.
Visual representation of "caret" - A symbol (^) used in writing and printing to show where something needs to be inserted.

Often appears as...

  • insert caret
  • place a caret

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "caret"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Editing Marks

A caret is often used by editors or during proofreading to indicate where additional text is required.

Illustration for Editing Marks
'I noticed a caret where the editor suggested adding a supporting fact.'
LampPro Tip 2/3

Visual Clue

In hand-written text, the caret stands out to signal changes, making it an effective visual tool.

Illustration for Visual Clue
'After reviewing my draft, I saw carets indicating where to insert the missing dates.'
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not a Pause

Unlike commas or periods, carets do not indicate a pause in reading; they're for editing.

Illustration for Not a Pause
'Her essay had several carets, but it read smoothly without any pauses where they were placed.'
Visual representation of the word "Caret"

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