The truth of the matter is that the En-Dash is the easiest to understand and use, and as such, it is the least likely to cause errors and/or confusion. It is also important to realize that the en-dash and the em-dash play completely different roles when it comes to writing. That s...
To create an en dash using a keyboard on a Windows-based system, hold down theAltkey and simultaneously type0150. To create this punctuation mark on aMacintosh-based systemhold down the Option key and press the Minus key [-].American Psychological Associationnotes that you would use the en ...
The rules of when and where to use which kind of dash may seem complex and hard to understand, but they don't have to. Here's your guide to how to use em dashes, en dashes, and hyphens correctly.
The AI writing assistant for anyone with work to do Get Grammarly Table of contents What is a dash? What is an en dash? When to use an en dash What is an em dash? When to use an em dash Common mistakes to avoid when using dashes How to use a dash correctly FAQs What is a ...
Or the use of a hyphen to indicate the use of a prefex when without it the prefix may create an unintended word, as in “recover” vs. “re-cover.” BTW: When we type “word space hyphen space word,” Microsoft Word automatically converts the hypen to an en dash, though it leaves...
When parentheses are used to offset thoughts within a sentence, em dashes can take their place to make your writing less formal. How to Use an Em Dash An em dash is used to offset thoughts in sentences, much like colons, parentheses, and commas. Let’s look at how an em dash can ...
Both em dashes and en dashes have their own distinct uses and can significantly enhance the clarity, emphasis, and style of your writing. Understanding how to correctly use these dashes will empower you to punctuate with precision. The Em Dash — A break in the flow ...
When Should You Use Em Dashes? 6 Places to Use an Em Dash Em dashes are versatile. They have uses both in formal and informal writing. They can take the place ofcommas,parentheses, colons,ellipses,semicolons, and even—for some writers—quotation marks. ...
A zestier option: Have weak phrases sneaked into your writing? Peppery verbs express movement, emotions, or sensory appeal. Type 3: A dash of onion emotion When reading emotional words, your brain sends signals to your body—almost as if you’re experiencing that emotion. So, reading positive...
Request memos are designed to make a requestand get a positive response. When writing request memos, I’d focus on using persuasive language and include stats or numbers to highlight why a ‘yes’ is the right answer. Sample use cases:To request a new purchase from your company or to aut...