Dashes
A pair to mark off extra detail, a single one to join two main clauses, and how it differs from a hyphen.
The answer
A dash is a line with a space on each side: a pair of dashes marks off extra information, and a single dash can join two closely linked main clauses.
Examples
It’s raining – I’m fed up.
A single dash between two main clauses, like the curriculum’s semi-colon example.
The lights went out – nobody moved.
My aunt – who lives in Wales – is visiting today.
A pair of dashes around extra information (parenthesis).
The treasure – all six gold coins – was hidden in a boot.
How to spot it
- A single dash sits between two main clauses, each of which could be a sentence.
- A pair of dashes surrounds extra information. Take it out and the sentence still works.
- A dash is longer than a hyphen and has a space either side; a hyphen joins words with no spaces.
The common mistake
Opening a pair of dashes and forgetting to close it.
When a dash starts extra information in the middle of a sentence, a second dash must end it, or the reader cannot tell where the main sentence carries on.
When it is taught
- First met
- Year 5
- On the pupil word list
- Year 5, as “dash”
Year 5 names dash and uses brackets, dashes or commas for parenthesis. Year 6 uses a single dash, like a semi-colon or colon, to mark the boundary between independent clauses.
Try a question
Which punctuation mark could replace the semi-colon in this sentence? Tick one.
The film was over; everyone went home.
- a dash
- a comma
- a question mark
- an apostrophe
Show the answer
Answer: a dash
A single dash can mark the boundary between two main clauses, as a semi-colon does. A comma cannot join two main clauses.
Related terms
- Practise the 11+ skill: Punctuate parenthesis
- Practise the 11+ skill: Mark a sentence boundary
More grammar terms
Questions parents ask
What is the difference between a dash and a hyphen?
A hyphen is short and joins words with no spaces (well-known). A dash is longer, has a space on each side, and separates parts of a sentence.
Is a dash more informal than a semi-colon?
A little. Dashes feel lively and conversational; semi-colons feel calmer and more formal. Both can join two main clauses.
When are dashes taught?
Year 5 uses pairs of dashes for parenthesis. Year 6 adds a single dash between main clauses.
Grammar turns up in 11+ English too
Many 11+ English papers include grammar and punctuation questions alongside comprehension. The free diagnostic checks maths, English and both kinds of reasoning, and shows what to practise next. No card is required.