Em dash

Definition

An em dash is a punctuation mark that is longer than a hyphen and en dash, typically used to create emphasis, indicate interruption, or connect related thoughts within a sentence. It serves multiple functions in writing, often adding clarity or drama to the text by providing pauses or shifts in thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The em dash is versatile and can replace commas, parentheses, or colons, depending on the intended effect in a sentence.
2. Typically, there are no spaces before or after an em dash when used in a sentence.
3. In typography, the em dash is often represented by the 'Shift + Option + -' (on Mac) or 'Alt + 0151' (on Windows) keyboard shortcuts.
4. Writers often use the em dash to create a strong break in thought, indicating that something important is about to be added or contrasted.
5. Em dashes can be particularly effective in creative writing, where they can enhance the rhythm and flow of sentences.

Review Questions

• How does the em dash function differently than commas and parentheses in writing?
  • The em dash serves as a more dramatic pause than commas and adds emphasis, often indicating a shift in thought or additional information. Unlike parentheses that can isolate information and make it seem secondary, the em dash brings attention to the inserted thought, making it feel integral to the sentence. While commas provide minor breaks for lists or clauses, em dashes create stronger interruptions that can change the tone of a statement.
• In what situations might a writer choose to use an em dash instead of an en dash or hyphen?
  • A writer might choose to use an em dash when emphasizing a point or creating suspense within a sentence. While hyphens connect compound words and en dashes indicate ranges, em dashes function to add clarity and flair. For example, if a writer wants to emphasize an unexpected conclusion in a sentence, an em dash can effectively highlight that moment of surprise compared to the more straightforward connections made with hyphens or en dashes.
• Evaluate the impact of using em dashes on the overall style and tone of a piece of writing.
  • Using em dashes can significantly impact the style and tone of writing by introducing an element of drama and urgency. This punctuation mark allows for interruptions that can mirror conversational speech, making writing feel more relatable and dynamic. When writers strategically employ em dashes, they can create rhythm and emphasize key ideas, engaging readers more effectively and enhancing the emotional weight of their messages.

Related terms

hyphen: A punctuation mark (-) used to join words or parts of words, such as in compound adjectives or to separate syllables.

en dash:

A punctuation mark (–) that is longer than a hyphen but shorter than an em dash, used primarily to indicate ranges of numbers or dates.

parentheses:

Punctuation marks ( ) used to include additional information or clarifications within a sentence without disrupting its flow.