Common mistake Hyphen, n-dash and m-dash
Hyphen, n-dash, and m-dash: Understanding the Difference
When it comes to punctuation marks, many writers often confuse hyphens, n-dashes, and m-dashes. These three marks, while similar in appearance, serve different purposes and should be used correctly to ensure clear and effective communication. In this article, we'll break down the differences and provide examples to help you understand when and how to use hyphens, n-dashes, and m-dashes.
Hyphens
A hyphen (-) is the shortest of the three marks. It is primarily used to join words together or to separate syllables in a word. Here are a few examples:
- The long-term project was finally completed.
- Please check your email address for any typos.
- We need to re-evaluate our marketing strategy.
Hyphens are also used when writing compound numbers, such as twenty-one or thirty-six. They are also used in certain prefixes, like self-employed or well-known.
N-Dashes
An n-dash (–) is slightly longer than a hyphen. It is primarily used to indicate numerical ranges or time spans. Here are a few examples:
- The conference will take place on July 15–17.
- The company's revenue increased by 10%–15% last year.
- Please read pages 10–20 for the complete analysis.
It's important to note that there should be no spaces on either side of the n-dash. However, in some style guides, a space is allowed if it improves readability.
M-Dashes
An m-dash (—) is the longest of the three marks. It is primarily used to indicate a break in thought, parenthetical clauses, or to emphasize a certain phrase. Here are a few examples:
- She finally got her dream job—the one she had always wanted.
- My friend said—though I can't confirm this—that he won the lottery.
- He gave me the most amazing gift—a trip around the world.
It's important to note that there should be no spaces on either side of the m-dash. However, in some style guides, spaces are allowed if it improves readability.
Remember, accurate usage of hyphens, n-dashes, and m-dashes can greatly improve the clarity and professionalism of your writing.
Linguix Grammar Checker: To ensure your writing is free from any punctuation mistakes, consider using the Linguix Grammar Checker. It can help you identify and correct any errors related to hyphens, n-dashes, and m-dashes, along with other grammar and punctuation issues.
Hyphen, n-dash and m-dash mistake examples
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Incorrect:- What is that, mother?Correct:— What is that, mother?
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Incorrect:« - What is that, mother?Correct:« — What is that, mother?
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Correct:— It's your birthday present, my daughter.
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Correct:---------------------------------------
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Incorrect:In these educational establishments there were enrollments - mostly from elementary school — and a total of teachers.Correct:In these educational establishments there were enrollments — mostly from elementary school — and a total of teachers.
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Incorrect:Institute Ricci de Macau - Association of cultural promotion of the Company of Jesus in MacauCorrect:Institute Ricci de Macau — Association of cultural promotion of the Company of Jesus in Macau
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Correct:In the Midwest and Northwest portion are higher elevations, reaching 500 meters above sea level, highlighting Serra do Tumucumaque and Sierra Lombarda.
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Incorrect:Vitorino Nemésio (1901 - 1978) — writer and university teacher.Correct:Vitorino Nemésio (1901 – 1978|1901–1978) — writer and university teacher.
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Correct:10-10-10 — Date
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Correct:10-10-2010 — Date
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Correct:2010-10-10 — Date
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Incorrect:…— as aforementioned -,…Correct:…— as aforementioned —,…
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Correct:A better or more prestigious quality or status: A-, A or A+
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Correct:Sometimes the syndrome is divided into low-, medium- or high-functioning autism
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Correct:--------, Schopenhauer, The Human Character.
