A dash ( – ) looks like a hyphen. A hyphen is used inside of words. A dash is used between parts of a sentence.
Use a dash when you want to show an interruption in thought.
I really need to talk to you about Saturday – oh, look at that!
Use a dash when you want to set off some words of explanation.
Sarah – she’s my oldest sister – is taking me to the mall today.
Use a dash when you want to emphasize a certain word or idea.
I was taking a walk – alone – when I heard a strange noise.
Use a dash when you want to set off a list of words with commas between them.
My three best friends – Betsy, Jan, and Sylvia – have all agreed to be in my wedding.
The dash is a useful piece of punctuation. Use a dash to show an interruption in thought, to set off some words of explanation, to emphasize a certain word or idea, and to set off a list of words.