Four functions of dashes

The four functions of dashes are as follows:

Lead out supplementary information:

Dashes can be used to elicit additional information or explanations. It inserts an independent clause or phrase into a sentence so that readers can understand the context more clearly. For example, "She bought a lot of fruits-apples, oranges and bananas."

Express emphasis or prominence:

Dashes can be used to highlight or emphasize a word or phrase to attract readers' attention. This usage is usually emotional or expresses strong opinions. For example, "He is my best friend-my soul mate."

Indicates a pause or prolongation of a syllable:

Dashes can be used to indicate the pause or extension of syllables, which gives readers a better sense of rhythm. This usage is common in poetry and drama. For example: "Quiet-listen!"

Separation and coordination projects:

Dashes can be used to separate juxtaposed items, especially when listing names, books, dates, etc. Doing so can make the list clearer. For example, "their family members include: father-Mr. Li, mother-Ms. Zhang, and two children-Xiaoming and Xiaohong."

English dash usage

1, connecting phrase:

Dashes can be used to connect two phrases, indicating that the two phrases are related or related to some extent. For example, she is a brave girl-she faced her fears and overcame them.

2. Key statements:

Dashes can also be used to emphasize a sentence or a group of phrases. For example, I can't believe this is happening-why did you do it?

3. Replace commas and brackets:

A dash can replace a comma or a pair of brackets to highlight or emphasize a statement. His sister, a famous actress, visited us last week.

4. Discontinuous marking:

Dashes can also be used to mark intermittent or interrupted statements, which usually cannot be expressed in other ways. For example, in the middle of her exam, to her surprise, the power went out.