This post builds on the previous post, which focuses on the different types of dashes. I see beginning writers misuse or confuse the uses of ellipses and dashes, particularly the em-dash. Some writers also use a hyphen instead of an em-dash, but this is incorrect. Hyphens have their own special function which was dealt with in …
Note: The WritingEssentials blog is on hiatus. Meanwhile, favorite posts will be published with updates. Ellen ~~ Ellipses and dashes are used to denote pauses, but according to creative writing copy editor, Caitlin Berve, are “two of the most commonly used and misused punctuation marks” she sees in her work. In this update of the …
I see beginning writers misuse or confuse the uses of ellipses and dashes, particularly the em-dash. Some writers also use a hyphen instead of an em-dash, but this is incorrect. Hyphens have their own special use which was dealt with in an earlier post. This discussion will help clarify uses of ellipses and dashes and provide …