Commas, Ellipses, & Dashes

Front

What is an ellipsis?

Back

An ellipsis is a series of three dots ( . . . ) used to indicate the omission of a word, phrase, or line from a quoted passage.

Front

How is an ellipsis used in dialogue?

Back

An ellipsis is used in dialogue to indicate an incomplete thought or a pause in speech.

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of an ellipsis in a sentence.

Back

"I can’t stand that girl,” Olive said. “She’s so . . . I hate her.".

Front

What is a dash used for in writing?

Back

A dash is used to signal an interruption in dialogue and to emphasize breaks in thought or shifts in tone.

Front

How do you use commas to set off interrupting phrases?

Back

Commas are used to separate words or phrases that interrupt the flow of a sentence.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using commas correctly.

Back

Justin, who lives down the street from me, is going to be at the party.

Front

What is the purpose of using an ellipsis in a quote?

Back

An ellipsis is used in a quote to shorten the text while maintaining the original meaning.

Front

Provide an example of a quote shortened with an ellipsis.

Back

A critic wrote that the musical was "dazzling, colorful, and beautifully performed. . . .".

Front

What punctuation mark indicates a pause or break in thought?

Back

A dash.

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a dash?

Back

A comma indicates a slight pause, while a dash indicates a stronger break or interruption.