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Why Is The Interobang No Longer Used?

The interrobang (‽) isn't exactly "no longer used" – it's more that it never gained widespread adoption. While its creator, Martin K. Speckter, believed it could be a useful punctuation mark, it has faced several challenges:

* Limited Functionality: The interrobang combines the question mark and exclamation point, but in reality, most situations call for one or the other, not both.

* Technical Difficulties: Early typewriters lacked an interrobang key, making it inconvenient to use. Modern software often requires a special code or plugin to insert it.

* Lack of Standardization: Unlike established punctuation marks, there's no official rule dictating how to use the interrobang. This uncertainty can lead to confusion and inconsistent usage.

* Aesthetic Concerns: Some find the interrobang visually cluttered or awkward. It also can be difficult to integrate into existing typography.

In Conclusion: While the interrobang remains an interesting concept, it hasn't overcome the practical and aesthetic hurdles to becoming a common punctuation mark.

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