Non-breaking spaces prevent line breaks unexpectedly

Phenomenon

When using non-breaking spaces in contenteditable, they prevent line breaks even when the text would normally wrap. This can cause text to overflow or create unexpected layout issues.

Reproduction example

1. Insert text with multiple non-breaking spaces: Hello   World
2. Resize the container to be narrow
3. Observe text wrapping

Observed behavior

• Text does not wrap at non-breaking spaces
• Text may overflow container
• Line breaks are prevented
• Layout issues occur

Expected behavior

• Non-breaking spaces should prevent breaks (by design)
• Or behavior should be predictable
• Layout should handle nbsp appropriately
• Users should understand nbsp behavior

Browser Comparison

• All browsers: Non-breaking spaces prevent breaks (by design)
• This is expected HTML behavior
• May need to use regular spaces or CSS for wrapping

Notes and possible direction for workarounds

• Use regular spaces if wrapping is needed
• Use CSS word-break or overflow-wrap for long words
• Replace nbsp with regular spaces if wrapping is desired
• Document nbsp behavior for users