Hyphen vs. Dash: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 2, 2023
"A Hyphen (-) is used to join words or parts of words, like in 'well-being.' A dash (— or –) is used to create a strong separation in a sentence, like in 'She is going—reluctantly—to the party.'"
Key Differences
A hyphen is a punctuation mark used to join words or separate syllables of a single word. For example, "mother-in-law" or "co-worker" use hyphens to connect related words. Hyphens are also used in compound adjectives like "blue-green."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Conversely, a dash is a punctuation mark used to create a strong separation in a sentence. There are two types of dashes: the en dash (–) and the em dash (—). The en dash is used to represent a range, such as "January–March," while the em dash is used to set off a parenthetical thought or a strong break in a sentence.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
In terms of length, a hyphen is the shortest, followed by the en dash, and then the em dash, which is the longest. It's important to note that while hyphens are always the same length, the length of dashes can vary depending on the font and typesetting.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Furthermore, hyphens are never spaced, whereas dashes are sometimes spaced. When using an em dash, spaces are optional and a matter of style. On the other hand, en dashes are typically not spaced. It's important to use these punctuation marks correctly to ensure clarity in writing.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Hyphen and Dash Definitions
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Dash
Represents a range of values.
The meeting is scheduled for January–March.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Hyphen
Separates syllables of a word.
The word 'co-operate' can be hyphenated.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Dash
Sets off parenthetical thoughts.
Her cat—which is quite mischievous—knocked over the plant.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 02, 2023
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Hyphen
Avoids ambiguity or confusion.
The small-business owner was successful.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 02, 2023
Dash
Separates items in a list.
She bought apples, oranges, and—surprisingly—cucumbers.
Harlon Moss
Nov 02, 2023
Hyphen
A punctuation mark ( - ) used between the parts of a compound word or name or between the syllables of a word, especially when divided at the end of a line of text.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 22, 2022
FAQs
Is a hyphen the same as a minus sign?
No, a hyphen is a punctuation mark, while a minus sign represents subtraction.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Do dashes need to be spaced?
Spacing for em dashes is optional; en dashes are typically not spaced.
Janet White
Nov 02, 2023
Can a dash be used as a comma?
Yes, a dash can be used like a comma to set off a parenthetical thought.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 02, 2023
Can a dash replace a colon?
Yes, a dash can sometimes replace a colon for stylistic reasons.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 02, 2023
Are hyphens always necessary?
No, hyphens are sometimes optional depending on the style guide.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Are hyphens used in informal writing?
Yes, hyphens can be used in both informal and formal writing.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Are there different types of dashes?
Yes, there are two types of dashes: the en dash and the em dash.
Janet White
Nov 02, 2023
Can a hyphen be used to create emphasis?
No, a hyphen is not used for emphasis; that is the role of a dash.
Janet White
Nov 02, 2023
Can a hyphen be used in place of a dash?
No, a hyphen and a dash serve different purposes and should not be used interchangeably.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 02, 2023
Are dashes used in formal writing?
Yes, dashes can be used in formal writing, but they should be used sparingly.
Sara Rehman
Nov 02, 2023
Can a dash be used to set off a quotation?
Yes, a dash can be used to set off a quotation for stylistic effect.
Harlon Moss
Nov 02, 2023
Are hyphens used in compound nouns?
Yes, hyphens are often used in compound nouns, such as "mother-in-law."
Harlon Moss
Nov 02, 2023
Can a dash be used to indicate a change in tone?
Yes, a dash can be used to indicate a change in tone in a sentence.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 02, 2023
Can a hyphen be used to connect prefixes and suffixes?
Yes, a hyphen can be used to connect prefixes and suffixes to words.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 02, 2023
Can a dash be used to indicate an abrupt end?
Yes, a dash can be used to indicate an abrupt end to a sentence.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
Can a hyphen be used to connect numbers?
Yes, a hyphen can be used to connect numbers, such as in "2-3 weeks."
Harlon Moss
Nov 02, 2023
Can a hyphen be used to separate items in a list?
No, a hyphen is not used to separate items in a list; that is the role of a comma or semicolon.
Sara Rehman
Nov 02, 2023
Can a dash be used to indicate a pause?
Yes, a dash can be used to indicate a pause in a sentence.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 02, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
