Dash Quote by William Strunk, Jr
“A dash is a mark of separation stronger than a comma, less formal than a colon, and more relaxed than parentheses.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr and E.B. White, 1918
A dash separates ideas more strongly than a comma but less formally than a colon, offering a relaxed pause.
In simple terms: A dash is a stronger pause than a comma.
Key Takeaway
Use dashes to clarify relationships.
Themes
punctuation
clarity
writing style
Mood
neutral
informative
Type
educational
reference
When to use this quote
- editing essays
- creative writing
- technical documentation
Key Concepts
syntax
emphasis
Questions to Reflect On
- When does a dash improve readability?
- What alternatives exist?
A Different Perspective
Overuse can clutter prose.
