Flashcard #2 Dashes Hyphens Parentheses

Front

What is a dash and how is it used in writing?

Back

A dash (—) is a punctuation mark used to create a strong break in the structure of a sentence. It can indicate a pause, an interruption, or an abrupt change in thought.

Front

What is a hyphen and when should it be used?

Back

A hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark used to join words or parts of words. It is commonly used in compound adjectives (e.g., well-known) and to separate syllables of a single word.

Front

What is the purpose of parentheses in writing?

Back

Parentheses ( ) are used to include additional information or asides that are not essential to the main point of the sentence. They can provide clarification or extra details.

Front

How do you correctly use a dash in a sentence?

Back

Dashes can be used to set off information that is not essential to the main sentence. For example: "She was going to the store — if it stopped raining — to buy groceries."

Front

What is the difference between a dash and a hyphen?

Back

A dash is longer and used to create breaks in sentences, while a hyphen is shorter and used to connect words or parts of words.

Front

Provide an example of a compound adjective that uses a hyphen.

Back

An example of a compound adjective is "high-speed" in the phrase "high-speed train."

Front

What is a common error when using commas and dashes?

Back

A common error is using a comma instead of a dash to set off a phrase that adds emphasis or a strong break in thought.

Front

How can parentheses change the meaning of a sentence?

Back

Parentheses can add supplementary information that clarifies or elaborates on the main idea without altering the core meaning of the sentence.

Front

What punctuation mark is used to indicate a break in thought or an explanation?

Back

A dash (—) is used to indicate a break in thought or to introduce an explanation.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a dash?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses, while a dash is used for emphasis or to set off additional information.