These three marks may look similar, but each one has its own job in writing. Here is when to use a hyphen, an en dash, or an em dash.
Use a hyphen to connect two or more words, especially when they describe something together.
Hyphens are also used in double surnames or to break words at the end of a line.
Use an en dash to show a range, especially with dates, times, or numbers. It means “to” or “through.”
Don’t mix the two: write from Monday to Friday or Monday–Friday, not from Monday–Friday.
You can also use it to connect parts of a compound phrase:
Use an em dash to add a break or interruption in a sentence. It’s like a stronger comma or parentheses. It is usually written without spaces around it.
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