Hyphens, Dashes, and Ellipses

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What is a hyphen?

Back

A hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark used to join two or more words together to create a compound word or to separate syllables of a single word.

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What is an en dash?

Back

An en dash (–) is a punctuation mark used to indicate a range of values, such as dates or numbers, or to connect related items.

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What is an em dash?

Back

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

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What is an ellipsis?

Back

An ellipsis (...) is a punctuation mark used to indicate the omission of words or a trailing off of thought.

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When should a hyphen be used?

Back

A hyphen should be used to connect two words that function as a single concept, such as in compound adjectives (e.g., well-known) or to avoid ambiguity.

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When should an en dash be used?

Back

An en dash is used to indicate a range of values (e.g., 1990–2000) or to connect related items (e.g., the New York–London flight).

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When should an em dash be used?

Back

An em dash is used to create a strong break in a sentence, often to add emphasis or to insert an additional thought.

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What punctuation is NOT used to show a breath, hesitation, or emphasis?

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A period is NOT used to show a breath, hesitation, or emphasis.

Front

What is the purpose of an ellipsis in writing?

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An ellipsis is used to indicate that something has been omitted or to create suspense or a pause in dialogue.

Front

True or False: A hyphen can join two words together into one concept.

Back

True.