When it comes to punctuation marks, we’re all familiar with the common ones like commas, periods, and dashes. But have you ever stumbled upon a double hyphen (–) and wondered what it’s called? You’re not alone! In this article, we’ll delve into the world of punctuation and explore the mysteries of the double hyphen.
The Origins of the Double Hyphen
The double hyphen, also known as an em dash or m dash, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It evolved from the en dash (–), which was used to indicate a range or a connection between two things. Over time, the en dash gave rise to the double hyphen, which is used to indicate a stronger break in thought or to set off a parenthetical remark.
The Many Names of the Double Hyphen
The double hyphen is known by many names, including:
- Em dash (M dash)
- Double hyphen
- Long dash
- Mutton dash
- Parenthetic dash
Each name has its own unique origin, but they all refer to the same punctuation mark.
The Em Dash Origins
The term “em dash” comes from the printing press era, where an “em” was a unit of measurement equal to the width of a capital letter M. The em dash was named so because it was typically the width of an em. This name has stuck, even though modern typography has rendered the original measurement obsolete.
The Mutton Dash
The “mutton dash” is a more obscure name for the double hyphen, but it’s still used in some circles. The origin of this name is unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the UK. Some speculate that it’s related to the idea that the double hyphen looks like a mutton chop, while others think it might be a playful reference to the idea that the dash is “cutting” through the text like a mutton chop cuts through the air.
Usage and Examples of the Double Hyphen
So, how do you use the double hyphen? Here are some examples:
- To indicate a strong break in thought: “I was going to the store—but then I forgot my wallet.”
- To set off a parenthetical remark: “This sentence—which is quite long—is an example of a parenthetical remark.”
- To indicate a range or a connection: “Monday—Friday, 9am—5pm” (note: in this case, the en dash is used, but the double hyphen is sometimes used instead)
Remember, the double hyphen is used to indicate a stronger break in thought than a comma or an en dash. It’s often used to add emphasis or to clarify complex sentences.
Common Misuses of the Double Hyphen
While the double hyphen is a useful punctuation mark, it’s often misused. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Using the double hyphen instead of an en dash: “Monday—Friday” (correct) vs. “Monday–Friday” (incorrect)
- Using the double hyphen instead of a comma: “I went to the store—but—and bought milk” (incorrect) vs. “I went to the store, and bought milk” (correct)
- Using multiple double hyphens in a row: “I went to the store—but—and—but—and bought milk” (incorrect)
To avoid these mistakes, make sure to use the double hyphen sparingly and only when necessary.
The Double Hyphen in Different Styles
Different style guides have different rules for using the double hyphen. Here are a few examples:
- The Chicago Manual of Style: Recommends using the double hyphen to indicate a strong break in thought or to set off a parenthetical remark.
- The AP Stylebook: Recommends using the double hyphen only to indicate a strong break in thought, and suggests using parentheses or commas for parenthetical remarks.
- The MLA Style Manual: Recommends using the double hyphen to indicate a strong break in thought, but suggests using en dashes for ranges or connections.
It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the style guide relevant to your writing or industry to ensure consistency and accuracy.
The Double Hyphen in Digital Communication
In the digital age, the double hyphen has taken on new meanings. Here are a few ways it’s used in digital communication:
- In social media: The double hyphen is often used to indicate a break in thought or to add emphasis to a statement.
- In online articles: The double hyphen is used to indicate a strong break in thought or to set off a parenthetical remark, just like in print articles.
- In coding and programming: The double hyphen is used as an operator in some programming languages, such as Python and JavaScript.
As digital communication continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the double hyphen adapts to new contexts and uses.
Conclusion
The double hyphen is a versatile and powerful punctuation mark that can add clarity and emphasis to your writing. By understanding its origins, usage, and common misuses, you can master the art of using the double hyphen in your writing. Whether you’re a writer, editor, or simply a punctuation enthusiast, the double hyphen is an essential tool to have in your toolkit.
What is a double hyphen, and how is it different from a single hyphen?
A double hyphen, also known as an em dash, is a punctuation mark consisting of two consecutive hyphens (–). It’s often used to indicate a break in thought or to set off a parenthetical remark. Unlike a single hyphen, which is used to join two words or parts of a word, a double hyphen is used to separate clauses or phrases within a sentence.
In terms of functionality, a double hyphen is more akin to a comma or a period than a single hyphen. While a single hyphen is used to connect words, a double hyphen is used to disconnect clauses or phrases, creating a stronger separation than a comma but weaker than a period. This subtle distinction can greatly impact the clarity and tone of written communication.
When should I use a double hyphen instead of a comma or a period?
The double hyphen is particularly useful when you want to insert a parenthetical remark or a tangential thought within a sentence. It helps to set off the remark from the rest of the sentence, creating a clearer hierarchy of ideas. For instance, if you’re listing multiple items and one of the items already contains a comma, using a double hyphen instead of a comma can avoid confusion.
In general, if you’re unsure whether to use a comma, period, or double hyphen, ask yourself whether the clause or phrase is essential to the sentence’s meaning. If it’s not essential, but provides additional information, a double hyphen might be the best choice. If the clause is essential, a comma or period might be more suitable. Trust your instincts, and experiment with different punctuation options to find the one that best conveys your intended meaning.
How do I type a double hyphen on my computer?
Typing a double hyphen on a computer can be a bit tricky, as it’s not a standard key on most keyboards. However, there are a few workarounds. On a Windows PC, you can type a double hyphen by holding down the Alt key and typing 0151 using the numeric keypad. On a Mac, you can type a double hyphen by holding down the Option (or Alt) key and typing the hyphen key twice.
Alternatively, you can copy and paste a double hyphen from a character map or a online resource. Some word processing software, such as Microsoft Word, also allow you to insert a double hyphen using the “Insert” menu or a hotkey. Whatever method you choose, the key is to be consistent in your usage to ensure clarity and readability.
Is the double hyphen used in British English as well as American English?
While the double hyphen is commonly used in American English, its usage varies in British English. In British English, the double hyphen is often replaced with an en dash (–), which is slightly shorter than an em dash. The en dash is used to indicate a range or connection between two things, whereas the em dash is used more broadly to indicate a break in thought.
However, some British style guides, such as the Oxford Style Guide, recommend using the em dash in certain contexts, such as to indicate a break in thought or to set off a parenthetical remark. Ultimately, the choice between the em dash and en dash depends on the specific context, personal preference, and the style guide being followed.
Should I use a space before and after the double hyphen?
In terms of spacing, the convention is to use no space before the double hyphen and a space after it. This helps to distinguish the double hyphen from a single hyphen and creates a clearer visual separation between clauses or phrases. However, some style guides, such as the Chicago Manual of Style, recommend using a space before and after the double hyphen.
Ultimately, the decision to use spaces around the double hyphen comes down to personal preference or the style guide being followed. Consistency is key, so choose one approach and stick to it throughout your writing.
Can I use the double hyphen in informal writing, such as text messages or social media posts?
While the double hyphen is commonly used in formal writing, such as academic writing or professional correspondence, it’s not typically used in informal writing, such as text messages or social media posts. In informal writing, commas, periods, and other punctuation marks are usually sufficient to convey meaning.
However, if you’re writing a longer, more formal post on social media, such as a blog article or an essay, using a double hyphen can add clarity and sophistication to your writing. Ultimately, the decision to use a double hyphen in informal writing comes down to your personal style and the tone you want to convey.
Is the double hyphen still relevant in the digital age?
Despite the rise of digital communication and the increasing informality of online writing, the double hyphen remains a useful punctuation mark. In an era where clarity and concision are more important than ever, the double hyphen can help to create a clearer hierarchy of ideas and convey complex thoughts with precision.
Moreover, the double hyphen can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to digital writing, making it more engaging and persuasive. As our language and writing styles continue to evolve, the double hyphen remains a valuable tool in the writer’s toolkit.