Punctuation RulesThe DashA dash (--) is like a strong comma, but it cannot separate all the items in a list--only the last--and it cannot set off initial-position free modifiers. 4a. Since it is like a comma, it can do the things that a comma can do, such as setting off free modifiers from the main clause and joining two main clauses with the help of a coordinate conjunction. It is a MORE EMPHATIC piece of punctuation than a comma, and so it is used to produce emphasis. The athletes--marching in as a group--smiled excitedly as they looked up at the stadium full of spectators.Notice that a dash is two hyphens typed without spaces before, after, or between them. On our farm we grow wheat, soybeans, alfalfa, corn--and bamboo!4c. A dash can't set off an initial-position free modifier. wrong: When we could stand it no longer--we called to find out when they were coming.The only time you can do that is when the main clause following the initial-position free modifier begins with "these." okay: Hot dogs, apple pie, and Mom--these are the traditional American symbols. |