Definition

A punctuation mark that is longer than a hyphen and is used to create a strong break in a sentence, often to set off a thought or explanation.

Example

She was going to the party — if she could find her dress — but she wasn't sure.

Conversation

I was reading an article that used an emdash really effectively.

Oh really? I love how it can add emphasis to a sentence.

Exactly! It feels like it makes the writing more dynamic with an emdash.

For sure! It’s a great tool for breaking up thoughts.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Emdash** → The word 'emdash' is derived from the term 'em' (referring to the width of the letter 'M' in typography) and 'dash' (meaning a punctuation mark). The emdash is a punctuation mark that is the width of the letter 'M' and is used to create a strong break in a sentence.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'em' as the width of the letter 'M' in typography, which helps you remember that an 'emdash' is a punctuation mark that is as wide as that letter.

Visually Confused Words