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- Dictionaryem dash/ˈem ˌdaSH/
noun
- 1. a long dash (—) used in punctuation.
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Like commas and parentheses, em dashes set off extra information, such as examples, explanatory or descriptive phrases, or supplemental facts. Like a colon, an em dash introduces a clause that explains or expands upon something that precedes it.
Mar 8, 2022 · An em dash is a punctuation mark that can be used to replace commas, parentheses, colons, and semicolons. In general, the em dash is seen as being more interruptive or striking than other punctuation, so it is often used stylistically to draw a reader’s attention to a particular bit of information.
May 31, 2019 · The en dash is approximately the length of the letter N, and the em dash the length of the letter M. The shorter en dash (–) is used to mark ranges and with the meaning “to” in phrases like “Dover–Calais crossing.”
The em dash is perhaps the most versatile punctuation mark. Depending on the context, the em dash can take the place of commas, parentheses, or colons —in each case to slightly different effect. Notwithstanding its versatility, the em dash is best limited to two appearances per sentence.
The em dash in American English is a punctuation mark that helps to convey emphasis, introduction, interruption, or a swift change of thought. In doing so, the em dash acts similarly to commas, semicolons, colons, and parentheses.
What is an em dash? Use em dashes to set off parenthetical information. Use an em dash to set off appositives that contain commas. Use an em dash to bring focus to a list. Use an em dash to mark sharp turns in thought. How to type an em dash.
Jun 17, 2024 · An em dash (—) is a punctuation mark that we can use in a variety of different situations. It is longer than both the en dash (–) and the hyphen (-) and we use em dashes in sentences in unique ways to the other two. An em dash or long dash (—) is what comes to mind of most people when they hear the word “dash”.
Em dashes [—] set apart parenthetical phrases or clauses in a sentence. It is longer than an en dash and three times as long as a hyphen and works similar to commas and parentheses. The em dash creates more emphasis and brings attention to the words it offsets.
Nov 16, 2022 · What Is an Em Dash? The em dash can be used in place of commas, colons, semicolons, and parentheses to increase sentence variety and readability. The em dash triggers readers’ brains to insert a slightly longer pause, which can aid in reading comprehension. It’s a long dash, the length of two connected hyphens.
Dec 1, 2020 · Em dash is an impressively versatile punctuation mark that can take the place of commas, parentheses, or colons, depending on the context. However, despite its flexibility, it can only be used at most twice in a sentence for best use.
