The Dash A dash is a mark of separation stronger than a comma.

Rule 1 For emphasis – A dash may be used to emphasize or explain a word, a series of words, or a phrase.

Examples: It was imaginary, anyway – not real. (pg 26) (explain) The first thing the lazy employees did when they arrived at work—besides slowly drinking their coffee—was to turn on their computers so the boss would think they were busy at work. (emphasis) Try It! "He excelled in three areas of math arithmetic, algebra, and geometry." (explain) The only thing Tony could do if he could do anything at all was to sit and wait for the test results to come in the mail. (emphasis) Rule 1

Rule 2 To indicate a sudden break – a dash can be used to show a sudden break in a sentence.

Example: The three of us came down with colds, lost our voices, and missed the football game – all because we had practiced in the rain. Try It! I can’t let them continue to so many people would be hurt if they proceeded with this action. RULE 2

Rule 3 To indicate interrupted speech – use a dash to show that someone’s speech is being interrupted by another person. Note: “Dashes” call attention to the material. Example: "He walked to work—past all the protestors—and never stopped to smile.“ The emphasis is on the protestors that the man walks past. “Commas” set off nonessential clauses and phrases following a specific noun (a proper name of particular person, place, or thing). Example: “Whitney Wise, who is a marathon runner, entered into the final stretch.”

Example: And if anyone comes – who might come? (pg 37). Try It! “They lived together in a wonderful palace, and “ (pg 11) Dara, you really should wait, listen, and what? never mind. RULE 3