Use a lowercase x in italic type as a placeholder number or variable. Do not use x to refer to a generic unspecified number. Use n instead. Do not use x to refer to a multiplication sign. See also multiplication sign (x), n.

Microsoft style

version 4.x

R4x00

Not Microsoft style

Move the insertion point x spaces to the right.

Refers to the generic concept of 32-bit processing.

When describing a computer, it refers to a computer that uses any of the family of Intel and AMD 32-bit processors.

When referring to software, it refers to 32-bit versions of software. For example, “C:Program Files (x86)” refers to a folder that stores 32-bit programs.

Use lowercase, hyphen, and regular type. In general, use category (x) axis to refer to the (usually) horizontal axis in charts and graphs that shows the categories being compared. Include a reference to the horizontal axis if it will clarify the meaning.

Use instead of xBASE.

Lowercase, hyphenated, and regular type.

Note capitalization and slash mark. Refers to the handshake between two computers during transmission of data. See handshake.