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First of all, lets talk about the difference between the em dash and the en dash. The em dash [--] is longer (about the width of capital M) than the en dash [-] (about the width of capital N). Both are longer than a hyphen. In a non-formatted or limited format medium, such as this web site, the em dash is represented by two hyphens [--].

The en dash is used to indicate range of values, such as between dates and times. Eg. 'This book is written for ages 3-5'

The em dash is used to indicate an interruption

Eg. "By trying we can easily learn to endure adversity--another man's, I mean." (Mark Twain).

Or to show an abrupt change in thought

Eg. I wish you would--oh, never mind.

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How do you use the dash in grammar?

There are three types of "dash" but none can be illustrated here. A dash is distinct from a hyphen (-) which is used to form compound adjectives, or show separated words from line to line in text. 1) The figure dash, used within numbers, such as phone numbers 2) The en-dash (n dash), which is wider than a hyphen, is used to mark spans of time between dates (e.g 1750-1820) and to mark parenthetical expressions in sentences (widely replaced in non-academic text by parentheses). 3) The em-dash (M dash) which is even wider, is used like the en-dash for parentheticals, and to indicate quotes. (You lose __ Calvin Coolidge). *The formatting of this page reduces these to hyphens as they are not part of the font format. The em-dash can be simulated by an exponential underline, but it ruins the line height.


What is the worlds longest punctuation mark?

Riddle: What is the world's longest punctuation mark? Answer: The one hundred meter dash.


When do you put a dash in a sentence?

Dashes ( -- ) serve the writer and the reader by inserting a rather dramatic pause in the flow of the sentence.They can serve to break up a long sentence, or simply to catch the reader's eye in order to make a key point in the narrative.Reference your style guide to determine how dashes are formatted, and when they can be used in your writing.Read more about style guides, below.


What does em mean in the sentencei love em?

them


What is the origin of the phrase up and at 'em?

Get going, get busy, as in Up and at 'em; there's a lot of work to be done . This colloquial idiom, often uttered as a command, uses at 'em (for "at them") in the general sense of tackling a project, and not in reference to specific persons. Sometimes used to order people out of bed in the morning.

Related Questions

What is the proper usage of the em dashhow does it differ from other punctuation marks?

The em dash is used to indicate a sudden break in thought or to set off a phrase for emphasis. It differs from other punctuation marks like the hyphen and en dash in its length and usage. The em dash is longer and is used to create a stronger break in the sentence compared to the hyphen or en dash.


When should you use a dash while writing?

A dash represents an abrupt shift in a sentence. It separates a clause or phrase from rest of the sentence, either for emphasis or to introduce a phrase inside of parenthesis. Dashes may also be used to separate quoted material from its author.There are two types of dashes, the em and en dash. An en dash can be used for time periods (eg. June, 2005-March 2011) whereas an em dash is used as a comma replacement in certain instances of writing.


What does the dash called?

The dash is a punctuation mark commonly called a "dash," and there are two main types: the en dash (–) and the em dash (—). The en dash is typically used to indicate a range of values, such as dates or numbers, while the em dash is often used to create a strong break in a sentence or to set off a thought. Both serve distinct purposes in writing, enhancing clarity and emphasis.


What is a dash punctuation?

A dash is a punctuation mark that is used to indicate a pause or break in a sentence. There are two main types of dashes: the em dash (—) and the en dash (–). Em dashes are longer and are used to set off a phrase for emphasis or clarity, while en dashes are shorter and are typically used to show ranges or connections between numbers or words.


Is a dash a type as two hyphens?

No, a dash is not the same as two hyphens. A dash, specifically an em dash (—), is a punctuation mark used to create a strong break in a sentence or to set off information for emphasis. Two hyphens (--) are often used in informal contexts to represent an em dash, but they are not the same typographically or functionally. The correct typographic dash can enhance clarity and flow in writing.


How do you type in a dash in your computer?

Check your keyboard it's between the number zero and the plus symbol at the top right of the regular 105+ US keyboard. This is a hyphen and not a dash. If you use the hyphen key, you must use it twice to make a dash, but this still is not a dash as there is a space between the two hyphens. There are two types of dashes. The en dash and the em dash. The en dash is bigger than a hyphen, but smaller than a em dash. The em dash is what most would want to use. The way to type is as follows: en dash - hold down the "alt" key and type 0150. em dash - hold down the "alt" key and type 0151 - Note the dash used in each of the instructions. The first is an en dash, and the second is an em dash. The character beneath them is a hyphen.


What are the grammar rules regarding an em dash?

An em dash is the width of an m. Use an em dash sparingly in formal writing. In informal writing, em dashes may replace commas, semicolons, colons, and parentheses to indicate added emphasis, an interruption, or an abrupt change of thought.


Which punctuation mark is used between elements of a sentence that are in contrast with each other?

The punctuation mark used between elements of a sentence that are in contrast with each other is the dash (-) or the em dash (—).


What does a en dash look like?

An en dash looks like a horizontal line that is slightly longer than a hyphen but shorter than an em dash. It is typically used to indicate a range of values, such as dates or numbers (e.g., 2010–2020). In typography, it is often represented as a single character, distinct from both the hyphen (-) and the em dash (—).


Can an em dash replace a semicolon in punctuation?

Yes, an em dash can replace a semicolon in punctuation to indicate a stronger break or separation between clauses.


What is the word processing name for a long dash that marks a break in thought?

em dash


What does dash?

The term "dash" can refer to several things depending on the context. In punctuation, a dash is a mark used to indicate a pause or break in thought, such as an em dash (—) or en dash (–). In cooking, "dash" often refers to a small, unspecified amount of an ingredient, typically used for seasoning. Additionally, in sports, "dash" can describe a short, fast race, like a 100-meter dash.