What's the opposite of a nbsp?

html

responsive-design

css3

web-development

byNikita Barsukov·Jan 13, 2025

In HTML, the counterpart to a non-breaking space ( ), which prevents text wrapping, is the zero-width space (). This space enables wrapping without introducing additional visible space. In terms of managing line breaks while preserving regular space collapsing, you can leverage CSS via white-space: pre-line;.

<!-- Fact: In space, no one can hear your dangling space -->
<!-- Zero-width space example -->
This is&#8203;an example.

<!-- CSS for preserve space and allow breaks -->
<style>.pre-line { white-space: pre-line; }</style>
<div class="pre-line">So, this is    an
example.</div>

Breaking without breaking: Seamless HTML text wrapping

A key ingredient in responsive web content cooking is the <wbr> (Word Break Opportunity) tag. Functionally similar to the zero-width space, this tag signals voluntary line breaks. It's like your text's shoulder to lean on when things get too wide.

Moreover, the CSS3 word-wrap property adds more granularity to your control over text wrapping:

/* "I find your lack of overflows...disturbing" – Darth Coder */
/* Wrap long words to prevent overflow */
.block { word-wrap: break-word; }

These power tools in your developer toolbox make your web content adapt to various screen dimensions elegantly, ensuring user comfort.

Website layout & readability: Built for eyes!

Keeping layouts under control

Take control of your website layouts. Tactical use of CSS properties like word-wrap can stop overflows and uphold your design's visual integrity. Blessed are modern browsers that support these properties, helping you achieve seamless cross-device compatibility.

The rules of breaking (Unicode style!)

Embrace the Unicode line breaking algorithm and study the specifics of LB7 and LB8 for an understanding of the rules behind breaks and non-breaks. This knowledge guides the skillful placement of  or <wbr> tags, enabling you to weave an ideal line break pattern.

Visual elegance, uninterrupted

Strive for a distracting-free reader experience. The  can unexpectedly add a hyphen, interrupting the smooth flow. Rather, utilise zero-width space, <wbr> tag, and CSS techniques for inconspicuous breaks that maintain content fluidity.

explain-codes / Html / What's the opposite of a nbsp?

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