If you’ve ever wanted to send a message on Discord that looks like nothing at all, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re aiming to create blank space, hide a surprise, or just add a little flair to your chats, this guide will teach you precise methods to make invisible text on Discord and explain when and why you might use it.
In this article you’ll learn the key techniques, how each works under the hood, and best-practice tips to avoid glitches or issues.
Why Use Invisible Text on Discord
Using invisible text on Discord has more uses than you might think. First, it can help you create spacing in long chats or break up big blocks of text visually. It can act as a placeholder or separator. Second, it can hide content from casual view—useful for jokes, pranks, or surprise reveals.
Third, it gives you a creative edge: invisible names, blank lines, or ghost messages add personality to your server. Recent usage shows a spike in “zero-width” characters being used across chats for fun and aesthetic layouts.
Method 1: Use the Zero-Width Space Character
One of the most effective ways to make truly invisible text is by using a special Unicode character known as the Zero-Width Space (U+200B). This character occupies space from the system’s perspective but gives nothing visible to the user. To use it:
- Copy a Zero-Width Space character.
• In Discord, go to the channel or DM and paste that character into the message box.
• Press Enter (or Return) to send.
The message will appear empty—even though it technically isn’t blank. This trick is especially useful for creating blank lines or making a “ghost” message. Because it avoids visible characters, it’s the most subtle method. But you must ensure there are no extra spaces or formatting that will show up.
Method 2: Markdown Blank Message Technique
Discord supports Markdown formatting—and some users exploit this to make messages appear invisible. Two common formats: typing ** ** (two asterisks with a space between them) or typing _ _ (two underscores with a space). When you send this, Discord interprets it as formatting but leaves you with what looks like an empty message.
To use it:
- In your message box type ** ** or _ _.
- Send the message.
- It will appear blank in chat.
This method is quick, but it’s less “invisible” than the zero-width space, because there is technically the Markdown syntax there. In some cases Discord may trim or treat the formatting differently, so results vary by platform (desktop vs mobile).
Method 3: Spoiler Tag Technique for Hidden-But-Revealable Text
If your goal isn’t completely invisible but hidden until clicked, then the Spoiler Tag is perfect. Use || (two vertical bars) on each side of the text you want hidden. For example: ||Secret message here||. When sent, Discord shows a grey box instead of the text. A user must click or tap the box to reveal the message.
Steps:
- Type your message, and wrap the hidden part in ||.
• Press Enter to send.
• Recipients see “Spoiler” style hidden text, which they can click to reveal.
This method is ideal for surprises, spoilers, or content you want to hide but allow to be revealed later. It’s not invisible in the pure sense, but it offers controlled concealment.
Method 4: Custom Blank Emoji or Server-Specific Tricks
Some servers create custom “blank” emojis—images that appear empty (like transparent PNGs) and are given emoji codes (e.g., :blank:). Using them, you can send messages that look void because the emoji shows nothing visible. Also, some users combine zero-width characters with blank emojis for extended blank blocks or decorative spacing.
How to apply:
- Join or create a Discord server that has a blank emoji.
• In your message, type the emoji code (e.g., :blank:) and send.
• The result appears empty or minimal to the chat.
This method is server-specific (works where the emoji is defined) and more decorative than functional—but it adds another layer of invisibility or subtlety.
Comparing the Methods
| Method | Visibility Level | Use Case | Platform Considerations |
| Zero-Width Space | Almost fully invisible | Blank lines, ghost messages | Copy-paste required, mobile may vary |
| Markdown Blank Message | Near invisible | Quick blank space or placeholder | May be trimmed or altered by Discord formatting |
| Spoiler Tag | Hidden until reveal | Hiding surprises, spoilers | Works universally on Discord apps |
| Custom Blank Emoji | Minimal visual footprint | Decorative spacing, server aesthetic | Requires server emoji defined |
Knowing which method fits your goal helps choose wisely. If you need truly invisible text, zero-width space is top. If you want the option of revealability, go with spoiler tags.
Best Practice Tips and Considerations
- Avoid excessive invisible messages in active chats: sending large blocks of blank or ghost text can be misinterpreted as spam.
• Check server rules: Some servers may restrict blank/hidden content or treat it as disruptive.
• Mobile vs. Desktop: Some characters may render or behave slightly differently on mobile apps or in browser versions of Discord. Always test it first.
• Accessibility: Invisible messages can confuse users who rely on screen-readers or accessibility tools. Use responsibly and consider readability.
• Visibility changes: Discord may update formatting or character-handling behaviours, so what works today may behave differently later. Keep this in mind.
• Purpose-driven use: Use invisible text for spacing, aesthetics, or fun—avoid using it for malicious or deceptive purposes (e.g., hiding disallowed content). ■
Quick Troubleshooting
- If your “blank” message shows small characters or odd symbols: you likely used a character that isn’t truly zero-width. Ensure you copied the correct U+200B character or exact Markdown syntax.
• If the blank message appears as “** **” or “_ _” visible: you might have an extra space or Discord trimmed the formatting. Double check the input.
• If the custom blank emoji displays as code (e.g., :blank:) instead of blank: That means the emoji isn’t defined in that server. You’ll need to add it or use another method.
• On mobile: Some character inputs (like zero-width space) may not paste cleanly. Consider using a desktop or verify via another device.
• If server auto-moderation flags your invisible message: Some bots treat blank messages as spam or misuse. Use sparingly and appropriately.
Practical Use Cases You’ll Appreciate
— Formatting a long written message: Use invisible lines to break up sections and create a clean visual flow without visible extra filler.
— Posting a surprise announcement: Type the announcement but wrap key parts with spoiler tags so members have to click to see.
— Creating a “ghost” channel or divider: Sometimes you want a message that visually separates segments without text—use zero-width space or blank emoji for a clean gap effect.
— Profile aesthetic or username trick: Some users use invisible characters in their display name (when permissions allow) to appear “blank” or ghostly in user lists.
— Fun within friends: A quick blank message can be a playful nod or acknowledgement without any words needed.
Final Thoughts
After decades of writing about digital messaging, platforms and community behaviors, I’ve seen that the best tricks are the ones that respect the user experience while adding value. Invisible text on Discord is no exception: when used thoughtfully, it enhances chat structure, adds creativity, or helps manage spoilers.
But if overused or misused, it becomes disruptive. Pick the method that aligns with your intention—zero-width space for true blanks, spoiler tags for controlled reveal, markdown blank for quick placeholders, and custom emojis for server-themed effects. Always test on both desktop and mobile, keep accessibility in mind, respect server rules, and deploy with a purpose. Your chats will not only look cleaner but feel more intentional.