What is the Difference Between Em Dash and En Dash?

05/15/2025 • Giovanni Medeiros

The main difference between an em dash and an en dash lies in their length and usage:

  1. Length: The em dash (—) is approximately the length of the letter "M," while the en dash (–) is shorter and about the length of the letter "N".
  2. Usage:
  • The em dash (—) is used to separate extra information or mark a break in a sentence, often in place of commas, colons, semi-colons, or parentheses. It can also be used to indicate an interruption in dialogue.
  • The en dash (–) is mainly used to mark ranges, such as numerical ranges (e.g., page numbers: 55–102) or time ranges (e.g., 1900–2000). It can also be used with the meaning "to" in phrases like "Dover–Calais crossing".

In terms of spacing, most newspapers and popular magazines insert a space before and after the em dash, while books and journals often omit spacing. En dashes should not have spaces on either side when inserted.

Comparative Table: Em Dash vs En Dash

Here is a table comparing the differences between an em dash and an en dash:

Feature Em Dash (—) En Dash (–)
Length Longest dash, approximately the width of a capital letter "M" Shorter than an em dash, approximately the width of a capital letter "N"
Uses Substitutes for a comma, colon, semicolon, or parentheses, emphasizing information Indicates ranges in numbers, dates, and times, replacing the word "to"
Examples - Lisa—who has supported me my entire life—deserves recognition. - The rooms were between 15–20 meters wide.

An em dash is the longest dash and is used to emphasize information or indicate an interruption in a sentence. It is approximately the same length as a capital letter "M". On the other hand, an en dash is shorter, roughly the same length as a capital letter "N", and is used to show ranges in numbers, dates, and times, replacing the word "to".

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