Grammar Tips. Dash.

General Rule:

Use a pair of dash when the speaker suspends but does not cancel the idea in mid-sentence and then continues the idea.

INCORRECT: I always shop, this may sound strange, at my husband’s store.

CORRECT: I always shop — this may sound strange — at my husband’s store.

CORRECT: I have often said — if you think I’m lying, you can check the record — that the $500,000 check was fraudulent.

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Here are some examples of using a pair of dashes to suspend, but not cancel, an idea in mid-sentence:

1. I couldn't believe what I saw—it was a magnificent, awe-inspiring sight [впечатляющее зрелище]—a double rainbow stretching across the entire sky.

2. She was determined to prove everyone wrong—the doubters, the critics, and even her own inner demons—and achieve her dreams.

3. The journey was long and arduous, filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt—but they persevered [продолжать] and reached their destination.

4. The book was filled with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected plot twists—it kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page.

5. He spent years honing his skills—practicing tirelessly, seeking guidance from mentors, and pushing himself to the limit—until he became a master in his field.

In each of these examples, the use of the dashes indicates a temporary interruption or pause in the sentence before the speaker continues with the original idea or adds additional information.