per cent and its symbol (%)

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Linguistic Reminder

(A similar problem is discussed in French in the reminder Pour cent, ses abréviations et son symbole (%) )

Problem

Is it percent or per cent? Should I write the term in full or use the symbol (%)? Do I repeat the term or symbol for a range of numbers?

Solution

Spelling

Canadians prefer to spell per cent as two words, although the spelling percent is also acceptable. This term should be spelled out in full in general writing.

  • In 2006, almost 40 per cent of Canadians lived in Ontario.
  • Pine trees make up just over nine per cent of Canada's forests.

Symbol

Use the symbol (%) in technical writing or in charts, and only with figures.

  • Canada has 10% of the world's forests.

Range of numbers

In a range of numbers, the words per cent should be written after the last number only, but the symbol (%) should follow each number.

  • An active lifestyle lets us live 20 to 25 per cent of our lives in active retirement.
  • By 2050, this segment of the population will double, from 7.6% to 16.2%.

Linguistic Recommendation reference number

REM-36/2012-03

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per cent and its symbol (%) (REM‑36/2012‑03) – Comments

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