Hyphens and Dashes

Front

What is a hyphen?

Back

A hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark used to join words or parts of words, such as in compound words (e.g., well-known) or to indicate a break in a word at the end of a line.

Front

What is a dash?

Back

A dash (—) is a punctuation mark used to create a strong break in a sentence, often to set off information or to indicate a pause.

Front

When should you use a hyphen in fractions?

Back

Use a hyphen in fractions when writing them out in words, such as 'four-fifths'.

Front

When should you use a hyphen to join numbers?

Back

Use a hyphen to join numbers when writing them out in words, such as 'forty-four'.

Front

What is the purpose of a hyphen in a special series?

Back

A hyphen is used in a special series to connect words that are used together as a single idea, such as 'four-, five-, six-person room'.

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How is a hyphen used with the word 'all'?

Back

A hyphen is used with 'all' in phrases like 'all-inclusive' to indicate that the two words function together as a single adjective.

Front

What is the difference between a hyphen and a dash?

Back

A hyphen connects words or parts of words, while a dash indicates a pause or break in thought.

Front

Can a dash replace a comma?

Back

Yes, a dash can replace a comma for emphasis or to create a stronger break in a sentence.

Front

What is an example of a compound adjective using a hyphen?

Back

An example of a compound adjective is 'high-speed' in the phrase 'high-speed train'.

Front

What punctuation mark is used to indicate a range?

Back

A dash (–) is used to indicate a range, such as in 'pages 10–20'.