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Wednesday 29 June 2022

Rules of Punctuation (Dashes)

 Dashes


Two dashes are used when breaking off a sentence to insert an after thought or an explanatory comment or short list:

e.g. In August last year- I was with my family at the time- I had a serious accident. Nothing-food, plates, cutlery, pan's-could be left unattended.

A single dash may be used.

(a) When breaking off a sentence for an abrupt change of thought or when "tagging on" another construction:

e.g. The following day we had better luck - but that is another story.

(b) To emphasize a repeated word:

e.g. The new regime imposed rigid laws-laws which the police found difficult to enforce.

(c) When bringing together a number of items:

e.g. Tooth brush, can-opener, matches, soap pads-these are often forgotten by inexperienced campers.

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