Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is one function of a dash in writing?
What is one function of a dash in writing?
- To indicate a pause that should not disrupt meaning.
- To separate ideas that are entirely unrelated.
- To indicate a direct quotation.
- To emphasize parenthetical material. (correct)
Which of the following uses parentheses correctly to indicate alternative terms?
Which of the following uses parentheses correctly to indicate alternative terms?
- She lives in Chicago (the third largest city in the U.S.).
- Date: __________ Timetable. (correct)
- The meeting is scheduled for Monday (the first day of the week).
- You may study the following topics (history and math).
How can parentheses be used in relation to Arabic numerals?
How can parentheses be used in relation to Arabic numerals?
- To enclose Roman numerals.
- To mark the end of a sentence.
- To replace written numbers entirely.
- To confirm written numbers. (correct)
What function do parentheses serve when used to set off supplementary material?
What function do parentheses serve when used to set off supplementary material?
Which of the following sentences correctly demonstrates the use of a dash to show a break in thought?
Which of the following sentences correctly demonstrates the use of a dash to show a break in thought?
Which function of the dash emphasizes parenthetical material in a significant way?
Which function of the dash emphasizes parenthetical material in a significant way?
In which scenario would parentheses NOT be appropriately used?
In which scenario would parentheses NOT be appropriately used?
What is NOT a correct use of dashes in writing?
What is NOT a correct use of dashes in writing?
How are parentheses used when dealing with Arabic numerals in a sentence?
How are parentheses used when dealing with Arabic numerals in a sentence?
Which sentence correctly employs parentheses to indicate a numbered division?
Which sentence correctly employs parentheses to indicate a numbered division?
Study Notes
The DASH
- Use a dash to show a break in thought or sentence structure.
- Use a dash to emphasize parenthetical material.
- Use a dash to indicate a summarizing clause.
The Parentheses
- Use parentheses to indicate alternative terms (as in form letters).
- Use parentheses to enclose abbreviations synonymous with spelled-out forms, occurring after the forms or if the order is reversed.
- Use parentheses to enclose Arabic numerals, which confirm written numbers.
- Use parentheses to mark numbered or lettered divisions within sentences or paragraphs.
- Use parentheses to set off supplementary, parenthetic, or explanatory material that does not change the meaning of the main sentence.
Functions of the Dash
- The dash can show a break in thought or sentence structure. Example: He had tried to change--you're not even paying attention!
- Another function of dashes is to emphasize parenthetical material. Example: Tomorrow--how I fear it!--is the big test.
- The dash can also be used to indicate a summarizing clause. Example: The house, the yard, the garage--they had remained untouched.
Functions of Parentheses
- Parentheses can be used to indicate alternative terms. Example: You may study any lesson(s) on our site.
- Parentheses can also be used to enclose abbreviations synonymous with spelled-out forms occurring after the forms, or if the order is reversed. Example: I will meet with U.E.A. (Utah Education Association) leaders at 4:00.
- Parentheses are also used to enclose Arabic numerals, which confirm written numbers. Example: They will arrive in (30) thirty days.
- Parentheses can be used to mark numbered or lettered divisions within sentences or paragraphs. Example: We will read the following chapters for our discussion tomorrow: (1) Africa, (2) India, (3) Iceland.
- Finally, parentheses are used to set off supplementary, parenthetic, or explanatory material that does not change the meaning of the main sentence. Example: Joe Jones (you knew him) visited me yesterday.
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Description
This quiz explores the correct usage of dashes and parentheses in writing. Understand how to effectively use these punctuation marks to clarify and emphasize content in your sentences. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their writing skills.
