English Language - Dashes

Following on from my recent attempts to educate those unfortunate not to have paid any attention whilst they were at school, here is the next in my somewhat, vaguely interesting series of English Grammar. And for once, it's a relatively quick lesson.

DASH it all chaps

The Dash (as it should be)

You may think that - is a dash.  Well, sadly it isn't, not on a computer keyboard it's not.

No, I'm not trying to wind you up, but most computer keyboards only bother to have one key with - on and this is the hyphen.  Dashes, are longer in length. I know, it's sounds like a jobsworth type of thing, but trust me, it's true. Therefore, many writers will type the following - - to show a dash. Yes, it's two hyphens saparated by a space, but make a show of using this and those in the know will respect your english abilities that much better.

When is it used?

The dash is worth learning about as it can be used instead of a colon (:), a semi-colon (;), or even three dots (...) to extend a sentence. There are a number of 'rules' concering the use of colons, semi-colons and the three dots and whilst there are strong arguments for using each, it can be much simpler just to replace them with a dash.

Here are some examples:

(Using a colon:)  I'll tell you what you are going to do: Your're going to listen to me.
(With a dash) I'll tell you what you are going to do - - Your're going to listen to me.

(using a semi-colon) You should get your barakes fixed; otherwise, you might have an accident.
(With a dash) You should get your barakes fixed - - otherwise, you might have an accident.

(using an ellipsis) Jameson promised: "In accordance with the statement, the bank will provide
the services...outlined in the brochure."
(With a dash) Jameson promised: "In accordance with the statement, the bank will provide
the services - - outlined in the brochure."

So, if in doubt, just use a dash.

Brackets too!

In fact, dashes can also be used to replace brackets - - Useful huh!!

(With brackets) Zander (one of the fastest fish in British waters) often school together around the edges of lakes.
(With a dash) Zander - - one of the fastest fish in British waters - - often school together around the edges of lakes.

Simples.

Summary

And there you go.  A short lesson in the quick world of the dash.

Dash it man, I have to dash off now. Tally Ho!!

Thought of the Day

Why is it called a "building" when it is already built?