Dashes

Front

What is a dash?

Back

A dash is a punctuation mark (—) used to indicate a break in thought or to set off information.

Front

When should a dash be used?

Back

A dash can be used to create emphasis, indicate a pause, or set off additional information.

Front

What is the difference between a dash and a hyphen?

Back

A dash (—) is longer than a hyphen (-) and is used to connect clauses or phrases, while a hyphen is used to join words or parts of words.

Front

How do you use dashes in a sentence?

Back

Dashes can be used to insert additional information or to create a dramatic pause.

Front

What is an example of using a dash for emphasis?

Back

I was going to—no, I must—tell her the truth.

Front

What punctuation can dashes replace?

Back

Dashes can replace commas, parentheses, or colons in a sentence.

Front

What is a pair of dashes used for?

Back

A pair of dashes can act like parentheses to enclose additional information.

Front

Can dashes be used in lists?

Back

Yes, dashes can be used to separate items in a list for clarity.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate this sentence: 'The book which I borrowed was fascinating.'?

Back

The book—which I borrowed—was fascinating.

Front

What is the function of a dash in the sentence: 'She was excited—beyond excited—to see her friends.'?

Back

The dash emphasizes the extent of her excitement.