En dash

Definition

An en dash is a punctuation mark that is slightly longer than a hyphen and is used to indicate a range of values, such as dates, times, or pages. It can also connect related items or concepts, providing clarity in writing by replacing the word 'to' in phrases. This punctuation mark enhances readability and structure, making it an essential tool in punctuation and mechanics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The en dash is commonly used to express ranges, such as 'pages 10–20' or 'the years 2000–2020'.
2. It is longer than a hyphen but shorter than an em dash, measuring approximately the width of the letter 'n'.
3. When used to connect related items, the en dash replaces the word 'to', like in 'the New York–Los Angeles flight'.
4. In formal writing, it's important to use the correct type of dash for clarity; using a hyphen instead of an en dash can lead to confusion.
5. Different style guides may have specific rules about using en dashes, particularly concerning their placement and spacing with surrounding text.

Review Questions

• How does the en dash enhance clarity in writing when indicating ranges of values?
  • The en dash enhances clarity by clearly indicating a range between two values, such as dates or numbers. For example, writing '1995–2005' provides a direct understanding of the time span being discussed without any additional words. This helps the reader quickly grasp the intended meaning without confusion that may arise from using other punctuation marks.
• Compare and contrast the uses of en dashes and hyphens in writing. When should each be used?
  • En dashes are used for connecting ranges and related concepts, while hyphens are primarily used for joining words in compound adjectives or splitting words at the end of lines. For example, 'the New York–Boston train' correctly uses an en dash for a relationship between locations, while 'well-known author' uses a hyphen to connect two words into one adjective. Using them correctly maintains clarity and structure in writing.
• Evaluate how incorrect usage of the en dash can affect the overall readability of a text. What consequences might arise?
  • Incorrect usage of the en dash can lead to misunderstandings and reduce readability by causing confusion over intended meanings. For instance, if a writer mistakenly uses a hyphen instead of an en dash in a range like 'pages 30-40', it could imply an incorrect relationship rather than a straightforward range. This miscommunication could disrupt the flow for readers and undermine the writer's credibility by presenting unclear information.

Related terms

hyphen: A hyphen is a punctuation mark used to join words or parts of words together, typically in compound adjectives or to split words at the end of a line.

em dash:

An em dash is a longer punctuation mark that indicates a break in thought or adds emphasis to a sentence, often used to create a strong separation within clauses.

punctuation:

Punctuation refers to the symbols used in writing to clarify meaning and separate linguistic units, such as periods, commas, and dashes.