The Dash Dilemma: Hyphen, En Dash, or Em Dash?

Why is everyone — especially AI — obsessed with the em dash? Scroll LinkedIn for five minutes and you’ll see it everywhere. But here’s the thing: it’s not new. It’s literally on the UK grammar syllabus, tested in SATs, and kids are already using it confidently.

Meanwhile, those of us who never had it drilled into us — I have this conversation with my dad all the time — sometimes dismiss it as wrong or “trendy.” It isn’t — it’s just grammar evolving.

So, let’s settle this once and for all. Meet the three dashes:

1. Hyphen (-) → The Glue Stick

It sticks words together. Simple, functional, no drama.

Examples: eco-friendly, mother-in-law, re-design

2. En Dash (–) → The Handshake

It connects things politely — often spans, ranges, or contrasts.

Examples: London–Paris flight, 2025–2026, pages 10–20

3. Em Dash (—) → The Mic Drop

This one’s the drama queen. It interrupts, adds flair, and demands attention.

Example: She was ready to leave—until the doorbell rang.

The Real Debate: Commas vs. Em Dashes

Here’s the quick cheat you’ll actually remember:

• Comma = soft tickle → blends in, smooth, almost invisible.

• Em dash = punch in the face → makes you pause, notice, and feel the impact.

Both are correct — it’s about the tone you want.

Why Designers & Marketers Should Care

Because punctuation isn’t just grammar — it’s voice. It changes how your copy feels:

• Hyphen = tidy, functional.

• En dash = professional, neutral.

• Em dash = bold, attention-grabbing.

When you’re building a brand, even the smallest line changes how your message lands.

Final Thought

Next time someone complains about “all the em dashes” — remember, it’s not an AI obsession or a millennial quirk. It’s something Year 6 kids already know.

So drop me a message and let me know: which dash do you overuse — or avoid like the plague?