What Is the Comma in Morse Code?
The Morse code for the comma (,) is --..-- — a sequence of 6 signals: dash, dash, dot, dot, dash, dash. The comma (,) introduces a brief pause. In Morse it’s six signals arranged symmetrically: dash dash dot dot dash dash.
When you search for “comma in morse code”, “morse code for comma”, “, in morse code”, or “morse code ,”, the answer is the same ITU-standard pattern: --..--. Other common names for this character include pause mark.
When to Use the Comma
Separating clauses and list items in Morse text and ham-radio messages. In high-speed CW conversation, operators often skip non-essential punctuation — but for clarity, accuracy and written transcripts, the comma stays as --..--.
Practice: What Is the Morse Code for the Comma?
Select the correct Morse code for the comma (,):
How to Tap the Comma in Morse Code
To transmit the comma (--..--), use this sequence:
ITU Timing Rules
- Dot (·) = 1 unit
- Dash (−) = 3 units (3× longer)
- Signal gap = 1 unit
- Letter gap = 3 units
- Word gap = 7 units
Timing Reference Table
| Speed | Dot | Dash | Letter gap | Word gap |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 wpm | 240ms | 720ms | 720ms | 1680ms |
| 10 wpm | 120ms | 360ms | 360ms | 840ms |
| 17 wpm (this page) | 70ms | 210ms | 210ms | 490ms |
| 20 wpm | 60ms | 180ms | 180ms | 420ms |
How to Remember the Comma in Morse Code
Two dashes, two dots, two dashes — symmetrical, like a comma pausing in the middle of a thought.
Frequently Asked Questions — Comma in Morse Code
The comma (,) in Morse code is --..-- (2 dots, 4 dashes). It’s the standard ITU code used worldwide.
The Morse code for the comma is --..--. Tap the sequence as: dash, dash, dot, dot, dash, dash, with a one-unit gap between each signal.
To send the comma: long press, then long press, then short tap, then short tap, then long press, then long press. Keep one unit of silence between each signal and three units between this character and the next.
The comma uses 6 signals total: 2 dots and 4 dashes. Most punctuation marks in ITU Morse use 5 or 6 signals.
Separating clauses and list items in Morse text and ham-radio messages. Punctuation is optional in casual CW, but standard for formal messages and written transcripts.
Yes — --..-- is defined by the ITU (International Telecommunication Union) Recommendation M.1677 and is used worldwide for the comma.
Related Morse Code Punctuation
Other punctuation marks often used alongside the comma: