Question
When should a writer use a dash? A. to separate items in a list. B. to indicate an abrupt shift in idea. C. to separate clauses in a compound sentence. D. to set off an introductory word or phrase.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
A writer should use a dash primarily for **B. to indicate an abrupt shift in idea.**
Dashes can also be used for emphasis, to set off parenthetical information, or to indicate interruptions in dialogue. However, they are not typically used for separating items in a list (A), separating clauses in a compound sentence (C), or setting off an introductory word or phrase (D), as those functions are better suited to commas, colons, or semicolons.
Dashes can also be used for emphasis, to set off parenthetical information, or to indicate interruptions in dialogue. However, they are not typically used for separating items in a list (A), separating clauses in a compound sentence (C), or setting off an introductory word or phrase (D), as those functions are better suited to commas, colons, or semicolons.