Dashes

• A dash (—) indicates a break in thought, an interruption in speech, or emphasizes a point or pause.

• It is twice the length of a hyphen and substitutes for commas, parentheses, or colons to set off non-essential information.

► When to Use a Dash

• To show an interruption in thought or speech:

  • Example: Ella was so excited—she could hardly contain herself!

• To emphasize a point:

  • Example: My brother—the one who always gets into trouble—was at it again.

• To introduce an explanation:

  • Example: The play—which was written by a local author—was really well received.

• To introduce a list:

  • Example: We brought everything we needed for the trip—blankets, snacks, water, and a first-aid kit.

► How to Use a Dash

• Do not include a space on either side of the dash.

  • Example: Write it as: "Ella was so excited—she could hardly contain herself!"

• Avoid overusing dashes to maintain their emphasis.

► Examples of Dash Use in Literature

• Example from "The Interlopers":

  • "When they get me out—I will remember the hint."

• Examples from "The Most Dangerous Game":

  • "Even so, I rather think they understood one thing—ear."

  • "I can sleep without closing my eyes; the night would be my eyelids—" An abrupt sound startled him.

► Conclusion

• Dashes effectively emphasize points or show interruptions.

• Remember not to use spaces around dashes and to avoid their overuse.

Remember this…

• Dashes (-) are used to show interruptions in speech or thought.
  [End of Notes, Message #1]