Commas, Ellipses, & Dashes

Front

What is a dash used for?

Back

A dash is used to emphasize the separation of ideas or lists, or to explain, summarize, or illustrate a thought.

Front

Which sentence uses a dash correctly?

Back

I was glad to be home - until I saw the bill in the mailbox.

Front

What is an ellipsis?

Back

An ellipsis is a series of 3 dots ( . . .) used when omitting a word, phrase, or line from a quoted passage.

Front

How do you use commas to set off interrupting words?

Back

Commas are used to set off one or more words that interrupt the flow of the sentence, e.g., "Justin, who lives down the street from me, is going to be at the party."

Front

How should dialogue be punctuated?

Back

Dialogue should be punctuated correctly, e.g., "I have made up my mind," she said, nodding.

Front

What is the purpose of a comma?

Back

A comma is used to separate items in a list, to set off introductory elements, and to separate clauses.

Front

When should you use an ellipsis?

Back

An ellipsis is used when you want to indicate that something has been omitted from a text.

Front

What is the difference between a dash and a hyphen?

Back

A dash (—) is used to create a strong break in a sentence, while a hyphen (-) is used to connect words or parts of words.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction, often separated by a comma.

Front

How do you use commas in a series?

Back

Commas are used to separate items in a series, e.g., "I bought apples, oranges, and bananas."