![]() ![]() It can also indicate missing words or parts of words. Use the em dash to replace other punctuation, especially commas, parentheses and colons. Instead of resorting to guessing and stupid luck, let’s talk about how to properly use em dash and en dash.įirst, we’ll talk about exactly when to use em dash in writing. They look so similar (and even sound similar!) so it’s easy to get confused. The en dash and em dash are often misused. en dash, the real differences come in how they are both used. Past the visual distinctions of em dash vs. The en dash lives up to it’s shorter name also in the fact that it has no spaces on either side of it. The en dash is known as the “short dash” and is usually used between numbers. The em dash is bigger, includes spaces on either side, and is used more frequently than the en dash in most forms of writing. The em dash is also known as the “long dash”. The biggest difference right off the bat is actually visually. What is the Difference Between Em Dash vs. Ell, em, en - oh, my! Since that’s probably not what you came here to discover, let’s get down to business and delve into em dash vs. ![]() That means you can recite over one-tenth of the English alphabet in order by pronouncing the names of units of length. An “ell” is an antiquated tailor’s and clothmonger’s measurement. In a contest of length featuring en dash vs. (Have I lost you?) In other words, if you have a 14-point typeface, one “em” equals 14 points. The em is a typography unit equal to the current point size of the type. It’s a technique that’s often used when authors transcribe verbal communications.I was thrilled beyond measure when I discovered the meaning behind the terms “em” and “en” while researching this article. To Signal an InterruptionĮm dashes can signal an interruption, particularly in dialogue and other forms of written speech. Let’s take a closer look at each way you can effectively use this versatile punctuation mark in your sentences: 1. Finally, you can use em dashes as an alternative to parenthesis. On the other hand, they can substitute missing information or missing parts of a word. What’s more, an em dash can also signal a sentence break when you want to clarify something or give extra focus to a list of items. Use the em dash to indicate an interruption or an abrupt change in thought. It has multiple uses, making it a especially useful in informal writing or fiction. What is an Em Dash Used for?Īn em dash is the longest of the dashes. Between hyphen and en dash, there’s em dash, one of the most versatile punctuation marks that you can use. This versatile symbol helps adding structure, clarity, and even personality to otherwise complex sentences. When a comma or colon isn’t enough, or you want to avoid using parentheses, the em dash may be the punctuation mark for you. An em dash can replace commas, parentheses, and colons.Typically, you shouldn’t include a space before or after the em dash.Long dashes help add clarity, signal a break, or indicate an interruption in a sentence.They often help emphasize specific information. When you think of an em dash, think of emphasis.An em dash is about the width of the letter ‘M’, which is where it gets its name.Type em dashes by pressing Alt+0151 for Windows or Shift+Option+Minus (-) for Mac. ![]() They are much wider than en dashes and are also called long dashes. ![]()
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