Dictionary of English - dash

This is a punctuation mark (–) that can be used singly or in pairs (as a type of parenthesis, to mark off a clearly subordinate part of a sentence). A single dash is used to represent a sudden break or interruption in dialogue or an abrupt change of subject.

A sentence should not have more than one pair of dashes. For marking off a clause or phrase integral to the structure of the sentence, commas are preferred: Then Alan, who is always hungry, decided it was time for lunch.

In dialogue, dashes represent a sudden break or interruption, whereas hesitation is usually indicated by ellipsis (three dots). I think I know – now, don't tell me. It's next to ... to – no, that's the other – I give up.

A dash can also give a special emphasis to the end of a sentence. Seeing the door slightly ajar, he gave it a push and it opened to reveal Agnes – in the arms of Fred!

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