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The Dash

The Dash. A dash is a mark of separation stronger than a comma. Rule 1. For emphasis – A dash may be used to emphasize or explain a word, a series of words, or a phrase. More examples: " He excelled in three areas of math --arithmetic , algebra, and geometry." (explain)

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The Dash

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  1. The Dash A dash is a mark of separation stronger than a comma.

  2. Rule 1 For emphasis – A dash may be used to emphasize or explain a word, a series of words, or a phrase.

  3. More examples: "He excelled in three areas of math --arithmetic, algebra, and geometry." (explain) The only thing Tony could do -- if he could do anything at all -- was to sit and wait for the test results to come in the mail. (emphasis) Examples: It was imaginary, anyway – not real. (explain) The first thing the lazy employees did when they arrived at work—besides slowly drinking their coffee—was to turn on their computers so the boss would think they were busy at work. (emphasis) Rule 1

  4. Rule 2 To indicate a sudden break – a dash can be used to show a sudden break in a sentence.

  5. Example I can’t let them continue -- so many people would be hurt if they proceeded with this action. Example: The three of us came down with colds, lost our voices, and missed the football game – all because we had practiced in the rain. RULE 2

  6. Rule 3 To indicate interrupted speech – use a dash to show that someone’s speech is being interrupted by another person. Note: “Dashes” call attention to the material. Example: "He walked to work—past all the protestors—and never stopped to smile.“ The emphasis is on the protestors that the man walks past. “Commas” set off nonessential clauses and phrases following a specific noun (a proper name of particular person, place, or thing). Example: “Whitney Wise, who is a marathon runner, entered into the final stretch.”

  7. Example: Dara, you really should wait, listen, and -- what? -- never mind. Example: And if anyone comes – who might come? RULE 3

  8. Note: “Dashes” call attention to the material. Example: "He walked to work—past all the protestors—and never stopped to smile.“ The emphasis is on the protestors that the man walks past. “Commas” set off nonessential clauses and phrases following a specific noun (a proper name of particular person, place, or thing). Example: “Whitney Wise, who is a marathon runner, entered into the final stretch.”

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