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How to prevent chat gpt from using em dashes in responses

User Frustration Grows | Can ChatGPT Fix Unwanted Em Dashes?

By

Alexandre Boucher

Aug 27, 2025, 05:39 PM

Edited By

Chloe Zhao

2 minutes needed to read

A person looking frustrated while typing on a computer with text on the screen showing em dashes

A segment of people is voicing frustration about ChatGPT's frequent use of em dashes in responses. Users claim the formatting creates a robotic feel, leading many to question if there's a way to permanently change this setting.

The Issue at Hand

Recent discussions on forums reveal a common complaint: ChatGPT’s reliance on em dashes. One participant noted that, "It’s so distracting and robotic,” prompting them to manually edit responses. This sentiment isn’t isolated. Others echo the challenge, expressing dissatisfaction with formatting that detracts from content clarity.

Seeking Permanent Solutions

While some users suggested issuing a prompt like "Don’t use β€” in your response," many prefer a more permanent fix. They are looking for options in settings that might eliminate the need for repeated instructions. If no solution is found, the current state could lead to continued manual edits, which individuals find frustrating.

"I’d love help if anyone’s figured this out!" - Concerned user

Community Responses

Conversations on the matter have sparked a mix of hope and skepticism:

  • Some want a quick fix. Many are eager for a solution that allows for smoother interactions.

  • Others prioritize clarity over style. They argue that responsiveness should come first, regardless of formatting quirks.

  • A few find humor. Some users find jokes in the situation, suggesting it’s a quirky feature of the AI.

Key Insights

  • β–³ People are frustrated with repetitive editing caused by em dashes.

  • β–½ Community members are actively seeking a way to modify formatting settings.

  • β€» "This just makes it so much work!" - Another user chimed in.

As of now, hopes remain high among the crowd for a clearer solution. Will developers address these formatting concerns?

Final Thoughts

This situation could lead to deeper discussions about how AIs present information. If a permanent fix is established, it might enhance user experience significantly. For now, the quest for a solution continues in forums across the web.

What to Watch for in the Coming Days

There’s a strong chance that developers will acknowledge the feedback surrounding em dashes and implement a solution. Given the growing discussion among people, experts estimate around 70% likelihood that a setting modification will emerge in future updates. If adjustments are made, users could enjoy a smoother interaction experience, reducing manual editing significantly. Such changes could also influence how other AI systems adapt their formatting options, broadening the impact beyond just this one tool.

Echoes of History in User Experience

The current tension mirrors the early days of word processors when formatting issues dominated user feedback. Just as typists grappled with the quirks of new technology, many took to forums to voice their concerns. The way those initial complaints shaped subsequent software updates serves as a reminder that ongoing dialogue can lead to important advancements. In both situations, community input has the power to drive change, making the present struggle a crucial moment in enhancing digital interactions for the future.