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How to Write Subscript: Small Lowered Text Guide

October 23, 2026

What is Subscript?

Subscript is text that appears slightly below the normal line, in a smaller size. Common in chemical formulas (H₂O, CO₂), mathematical notation (x₁, x₂), and phonetic transcription. Like superscript, subscript characters are distinct Unicode code points.

Method 1: Use a Subscript Generator (Fastest)

  1. Visit https://smalltextgenerator.live/subscript-generator/
  2. Type your text
  3. Copy the subscript version
  4. Paste anywhere

Method 2: Unicode Subscript Characters

Numbers: ₀ ₁ ₂ ₃ ₄ ₅ ₆ ₇ ₈ ₉
Letters: ₐ ₑ ₒ ₓ ₔ ₕ ₖ ₗ ₘ ₙ ₚ ₛ ₜ
Symbols: ₊ ₋ ₌ ₍ ₎

Note: Subscript has FEWER letters than superscript. Many letters have no subscript equivalent in Unicode.

Method 3: In Microsoft Word

  1. Select text
  2. Press Ctrl + = (equals sign)
  3. Or: Home → Font → Subscript button (x₂)

Method 4: In Google Docs

  1. Select text
  2. Format → Text → Subscript
  3. Shortcut: Ctrl + , (comma)

Method 5: HTML

H<sub>2</sub>O

Renders as: H₂O

Common Uses

Subscript vs Superscript: When to Use Which

For a side-by-side comparison of both, see https://smalltextgenerator.live/superscript-and-subscript-generators/

Limitations

Subscript Unicode coverage is more limited than superscript. If a character has no subscript form, it will remain normal size. This is a Unicode limitation, not a tool bug.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I type subscript on iPhone/Android?
Mobile keyboards don’t include subscript. Use an online subscript generator, copy the result, and paste it.

Why do some subscript characters show as boxes?
Missing font glyphs on your device. The characters are valid Unicode; your font just doesn’t include them.

Can I use subscript in Discord?
Yes. Generate subscript text online, copy, and paste into Discord. It renders as small lowered text.

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