U+212C\mathcal{B}ℬ<mi>ℬ</mi>Semantic identity and intent
Characters to distinguish
- ℒ — Script L
- ℱ — Script F
Use ℬ in the right format
Meaning and usage
Often names a basis, Borel sigma-algebra, or other structured collection.
Define the object explicitly because script letters do not have a single universal meaning.
Pronunciation: script capital b
Formula examples
\mathcal{B}(X)How to type Script Capital B
- Windows
- Use Character Map and search for Script Capital B, or paste the Unicode character (U+212C).
- macOS
- Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search for Script Capital B.
- Microsoft Word
- In an equation, type \mathcal{B} and press Space when Word supports the command; otherwise insert the Unicode character.
- iPhone and iPad
- Copy and paste ℬ, or use a math/LaTeX app. The standard iOS keyboard may not expose every mathematical symbol.
- Android
- Copy and paste ℬ, or use a math keyboard or LaTeX editor. Keyboard layouts vary by device and app.
- Google Docs
- For plain text, paste ℬ or use Insert → Special characters. For structured math, use the equation editor and verify \mathcal{B}.
- Excel
- Paste ℬ into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.
Common mistakes
- State the set-theory convention around ℬ; Define the object explicitly because script letters do not have a single universal meaning.
- For plain text, copy ℬ as U+212C; for structured equations, use \mathcal{B} in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Script Capital B.
When to use ℬ
- Use ℬ in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+212C.
- Use \mathcal{B} in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
- Define the local meaning when Script Capital B is used in math alphanumeric, set theory with a field-specific convention.
Look-alikes and related characters
- ℒ — Script L
- ℱ — Script F
Font and compatibility notes
Glyph shape can vary by font. Verify the code point after copying, and prefer LaTeX or MathML for structured equations.
Continue the workflow
From Script Capital B to a finished equation
- Copy the characterUse ℬ in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
- Choose a structured formatUse
\mathcal{B}for LaTeX or the MathML snippet for accessible web equations. - Edit or convertOpen the value in the editor or converter without retyping it.
Review and source notes
Quality tier: specialist
Last reviewed: 2026-07-23
Review method: Catalog review of character identity and notation mappings.
Verified against: Unicode Standard, Unicode mathematical notation guidance, and established LaTeX/MathML syntax.
Reference sources
- The Unicode StandardUnicode Consortium — Character identity, encoding, names, and conformance.
- Unicode Character Code ChartsUnicode Consortium — Code points and official character charts.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Script Capital B symbol mean?
Often names a basis, Borel sigma-algebra, or other structured collection.
What is the LaTeX command for ℬ?
Use \mathcal{B} in a compatible math environment.
Can I copy ℬ as Unicode?
Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.