Dash Exercise 1

Front

What is a dash in writing?

Back

A dash is a punctuation mark used to indicate a pause or break in a sentence, often to set off additional information or to create emphasis.

Front

When should dashes be used?

Back

Dashes should be used to set off non-essential information, indicate interruptions in thought, or create emphasis in a sentence.

Front

What is the difference between a dash and a hyphen?

Back

A dash (—) is longer than a hyphen (-) and is used to create breaks in sentences, while a hyphen is used to connect words or parts of words.

Front

How do you use dashes to set off a list?

Back

Dashes can be used to set off a list within a sentence, for example: 'The team members - doctors, nurses, and volunteers - worked together.'

Front

What is an example of using dashes for emphasis?

Back

An example is: 'I need to talk to you - now!' This emphasizes the urgency of the statement.

Front

How can dashes clarify a sentence?

Back

Dashes can clarify a sentence by providing additional information without interrupting the flow, e.g., 'The book - which I borrowed last week - is fascinating.'

Front

What is a common mistake when using dashes?

Back

A common mistake is using dashes incorrectly, such as placing them too close to words or using them in place of commas or parentheses.

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate this sentence: 'My brother whom I dislike always gets me into trouble.'?

Back

The correct punctuation is: 'My brother - whom I dislike - always gets me into trouble.'

Front

How do you punctuate interruptions in dialogue?

Back

Use dashes to indicate interruptions in dialogue, e.g., 'I was going to say -' but he interrupted me.

Front

What is the purpose of using dashes in writing?

Back

The purpose of using dashes is to create emphasis, indicate breaks in thought, or set off additional information.