What Are Em Dashes?
The em dash (—) is one of the most versatile punctuation marks in English writing. It can be used for emphasis, to add detail, or to indicate an interruption in thought. Unlike commas, parentheses, or colons, em dashes provide a stronger break in a sentence while maintaining a natural flow.
An em dash (—) is a long dash (approximately the width of the letter “m”) that is used to create emphasis, insert additional information, or signal an abrupt shift in thought. Unlike hyphens (-) and en dashes (–), the em dash is used primarily within sentences rather than for word formation or number ranges.
Examples:
- “She had one goal—winning at any cost.”
- “The trip—which had been planned for months—was suddenly canceled.”
Learn Next: How to Use En Dashes
The Three Ways to Use Em Dashes
The em dash is commonly used for three different purposes, each of which are explained below with examples:
- Interject a Main Clause to Add Emphasis
- Clarify with Added Detail
- Suggest an Interruption in Thought or Change in Direction
1. Interject a Main Clause to Add Emphasis
Em dashes can be used in place of commas or parentheses to set off an important part of a sentence. This technique draws attention to the inserted phrase, making it more striking or dramatic.
Examples:
- “The storm—one of the worst in decades—knocked out power across the city.”
- “His words were clear—this was not up for debate.”
What NOT to Do:
- “The storm, one of the worst in decades—knocked out power across the city.” (Using both a comma and an em dash creates inconsistency.)
2. Clarify with Added Detail
Em dashes can replace colons or parentheses to provide additional information without disrupting the sentence’s rhythm.
Examples:
- “Three things mattered most—honesty, loyalty, and perseverance.”
- “He finally met his idol—an artist he had admired since childhood.”
What NOT to Do:
- “Three things mattered most— honesty, loyalty and perseverance.” (Avoid unnecessary spaces after the em dash.)
3. Suggest an Interruption in Thought or Change in Direction
In dialogue or narrative writing, em dashes can signal an abrupt break in thought, hesitation, or an interruption.
Examples:
- “I was just about to tell you—wait, did you hear that?”
- “She started to explain—but he had already left the room.”
What NOT to Do:
- “I was thinking about— um— going to the store.” (For minor hesitations, an ellipsis (…) is usually more appropriate.)
Rhetorical Use of Em Dashes
Beyond their technical functions, em dashes can be used rhetorically to control pacing, build suspense, or create emphasis. They allow writers to mimic natural speech patterns, making prose feel more fluid and engaging.
Examples:
- “I knew exactly what I had to do—but I just couldn’t move.” (Creates suspense)
- “He was everything she had ever wanted—kind, smart, adventurous.” (Adds emphasis and rhythm)
What NOT to Do:
- “She was—tired.” (This creates an awkward pause without a clear reason.)
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