Explore the differences between a backslash () vs a forward slash (/). Learn how when to use a slash in English with examples, punctuation rules and ESL image. Learning English can already be a tough experience with just the basic vocabulary and letters. So when texts start using symbols such as “/”, then it’s only natural for people to get confused. This article will explain what a “/” can mean in a sentence and how you can use it. What Does / Mean? … What Does / Mean? Complete Explanation (With Examples) Read More » What is the slash symbol? How does it function? What is the intended function of the symbol? The slash, also called a stroke, oblique, or forward slash, is a punctuation mark used in the English language. Previously used for marking commas and periods, it is now used for representing fractions, division, inclusive or exclusive, and as date separators. A slash is a punctuation mark that looks like a slanted line: /. It is used in writing to separate elements, indicate alternatives, or shorten certain expressions. While it might seem like a very specific tool, the / actually has a wide range of applications across different forms of communication. In literature, it’s used to indicate poetic line breaks, while in mathematics, it represents fractions. Even in legal texts, you will find they that help condense lengthy instructions. As ...