Ampersands (&)

When and how to use ampersands in professional transcripts.

Ampersands (&)

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General Rule

Do not use ampersands instead of 'and'.

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When to Use Ampersands

They can be used where they are part of a company name/proper name or part of a well-known phrase:

Examples:

  • The City of Brighton & Hove
  • A&E (Accident & Emergency)
  • R&D (Research & Development)
  • Marks & Spencer
  • Johnson & Johnson

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When NOT to Use

In regular speech, always use "and":

  • Correct: "John and Mary went to the shop"
  • Incorrect: "John & Mary went to the shop"

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Key Principle

Only use ampersands when they are officially part of a proper name or established abbreviation. When in doubt, use "and".

Other Punctuation Guidelines