Commas, Ellipses, Dashes

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

Use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is an ellipsis?

Back

A series of three dots (...) used to indicate the omission of words or a trailing off of thought.

Front

When should you use an ellipsis?

Back

Use an ellipsis to show that part of a quote has been omitted or to indicate a pause in speech.

Front

What is a dash?

Back

A punctuation mark (—) used to create a strong break in the structure of a sentence.

Front

How do you use dashes in a sentence?

Back

Use dashes to set off additional information or to create emphasis.

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.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a comma correctly.

Back

I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using an ellipsis correctly.

Back

I was thinking... maybe we should go.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a dash correctly.

Back

I wanted to go—no, I needed to go—before it got dark.