# kerning(_:) Sets the spacing, or kerning, between characters. ``` nonisolated func kerning(_ kerning: CGFloat) -> Text ``` ## Parameters `kerning` The spacing to use between individual characters in this text. Value of `0` sets the kerning to the system default value. ## Return Value Text with the specified amount of kerning. ## Discussion Kerning defines the offset, in points, that a text view should shift characters from the default spacing. Use positive kerning to widen the spacing between characters. Use negative kerning to tighten the spacing between characters. ``` VStack(alignment: .leading) { Text("ABCDEF").kerning(-3) Text("ABCDEF") Text("ABCDEF").kerning(3) } ``` The last character in the first case, which uses negative kerning, experiences cropping because the kerning affects the trailing edge of the text view as well.  Kerning attempts to maintain ligatures. For example, the Hoefler Text font uses a ligature for the letter combination *ffl*, as in the word *raffle*, shown here with a small negative and a small positive kerning:  The *ffl* letter combination keeps a constant shape as the other letters move together or apart. Beyond a certain point in either direction, however, kerning does disable nonessential ligatures.  > Important: If you add both the ``doc://com.apple.SwiftUI/documentation/SwiftUI/Text/tracking(_:)`` and > ``doc://com.apple.SwiftUI/documentation/SwiftUI/Text/kerning(_:)`` modifiers to a view, the view applies the > tracking and ignores the kerning. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)