The Subdot Letters Ẹ, Ọ and Ṣ and How to Type Them

Three Yoruba letters carry a dot underneath: ẹ, ọ and ṣ. They are not decoration. Each is a separate letter with its own sound.

Why the dots matter

Leaving off the dot can change the word:

With dot	Meaning	Without dot	Meaning
ọkọ	husband	oko	farm
ṣe	to do	se	to cook

So ọkọ (husband) and oko (farm) differ only in the dot, yet they are different words.

Typing on a phone

• Android: some keyboards offer these letters with a long press, and many let you add a Yoruba language layout in the language settings.
• iPhone: add a keyboard in Settings, and check whether a Yoruba layout is offered for your version.

Typing on a computer

• Windows and macOS include language and keyboard settings where Yoruba or a similar layout may be available. Otherwise, use an on-screen character tool.
• Copy and paste from a reliable source if you only need a few words.

Writing without dots

In informal chat, many people write e, o and s without the dots, relying on context. This is common but can cause confusion.

When to include marks

• Always in school work, books and formal writing.
• Where meaning might be unclear, even in messages.
• In names, to keep their correct meaning.

Checking spelling

A dictionary that shows words with the proper dots and tone marks helps you confirm spellings.

Tips

1. Add a Yoruba keyboard.
2. Include dots in formal writing.
3. Use the dictionary to check marks.

Look up any Yoruba word with English Yoruba Dictionary →