An en dash (–) is a punctuation mark used to show a range of numbers, dates, or pages and to connect related words. Although it looks similar to a hyphen (-) and an em dash (—), each mark has a different purpose. Understanding the en dash meaning, symbol, and usage can help you write more clearly and avoid common punctuation mistakes. For example, you can use an en dash to show a year range, such as 2020–2025, or a page range, such as pages 10–15.
In this guide, you’ll learn what an en dash is, when to use an en dash, and how to use it correctly in sentences. We’ll also cover helpful en dash examples, explain the difference between an en dash, an em dash, and a hyphen, and show you how to type an en dash on different devices. By the end, you’ll understand the main en dash punctuation rules and feel more confident using this mark in everyday writing.
Quick Answer: What Is an En Dash?
An en dash (–) is a punctuation mark that shows a range or connects related terms. Writers commonly use it between years, dates, page numbers, and places. For example, 2020–2025 shows a range of years, while the New York–London route connects two places. An en dash is longer than a hyphen (-) but shorter than an em dash (—). You can use it to make information clear without writing extra words.
TL;DR: En Dash at a Glance
- En dash (–): Shows ranges and connects related terms.
- Hyphen (-): Joins words, as in well-known.
- Em dash (—): Shows a break or interruption in a sentence.
- Number ranges: Use an en dash in examples such as pages 10–15.
- Spacing: Number ranges usually have no spaces around the en dash.
- Keyboard shortcut: Windows and Mac offer different ways to type an en dash.
- Copy and paste: Copy this symbol when needed: –
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What Does an En Dash Look Like?
The en dash symbol looks like a short horizontal line (–). Its name comes from traditional typography, where its length was associated with the width of a capital letter N. You can often spot an en dash between dates, page numbers, and words that have a clear connection.
Here is a quick comparison of the three marks:
| Punctuation mark | Symbol | Main purpose | Example |
| Hyphen | – | Joins words | well-known |
| En dash | – | Shows a range or connection | 2020–2025 |
| Em dash | — | Marks a break in a sentence | I tried—but I failed. |
These marks look similar, but they do different jobs.
When to Use an En Dash
Writers mainly use an en dash to show a range or connect related terms. It can represent the word “to” in a range, such as Monday–Friday or pages 20–30. It can also connect two places or terms that have a clear relationship. Using the correct en dash punctuation helps readers understand the connection without adding unnecessary words.
To Show Number and Date Ranges
Use an en dash to show a range of numbers, dates, years, or pages. It tells readers that the range starts with the first value and ends with the second.
Examples:
- The report covers 2020–2025.
- Please read pages 10–15 before class.
- The store opens Monday–Friday.
- The event runs June–August.
When you use “from,” write “to” instead of an en dash. For example, write “The course runs from 2020 to 2025” rather than “The course runs from 2020–2025.”
To Connect Related Places or Words
An en dash can connect two places, groups, or ideas that have a clear link. It helps readers understand the relationship between the terms.
Examples:
- We booked a New York–London flight.
- The teacher–student relationship requires trust.
- The Boston–Chicago route attracts many travelers.
Use an en dash when the connection between the terms matters. Some style guides handle these connections differently, so follow the rules required for your writing.
To Form Certain Compound Modifiers
An en dash can connect a multiword name to another word when both parts work together as a modifier. This use often appears in formal, academic, or edited writing.
Examples:
- a post–World War II novel
- a New York–based company
The en dash helps show the connection between the full name and the following word. However, conventions vary by style guide, so check your preferred writing standard when you are unsure.
En Dash Examples in Sentences
The easiest way to learn en dash usage is to see it in real sentences. The mark works well when you need to show a range or connect related terms.
| Example | Why it works |
| The report covers 2024–2025. | Shows a year range. |
| Please read pages 15–22. | Shows a page range. |
| The Boston–Chicago route is busy. | Connects two places. |
| The post–World War II period changed many countries. | Connects a multiword name to a modifier. |
| The temperature stayed between 10 and 15 degrees. | Uses “between” with “and” rather than a dash. |
Choose the punctuation mark that matches the meaning you want to express.
En Dash vs. Em Dash vs. Hyphen
The en dash (–), em dash (—), and hyphen (-) may look similar, but each has a different purpose. An en dash shows ranges or connects related terms. A hyphen joins words, such as well-known. An em dash creates a strong break in a sentence or adds extra information. Learning these differences helps you choose the correct punctuation mark.
En Dash vs. Em Dash
An en dash usually shows a range, such as 2020–2025. An em dash creates a break or adds extra information to a sentence.
- En dash: The course covers pages 10–20.
- Em dash: I wanted to attend—but I was busy.
Use an en dash for the range and an em dash for the break in the second sentence.
En Dash vs. Hyphen
A hyphen joins words or parts of words, while an en dash shows a range or connection between terms.
- Hyphen: She is a well-known writer.
- En dash: The London–Paris route is popular.
- Number range: The exam covers pages 20–30.
Remember this simple rule: use a hyphen to join words and an en dash to show a range or a connection between related terms.
How to Type an En Dash on Different Devices
You can type an en dash using a keyboard shortcut, a word processor, or your device’s symbol menu. The exact method depends on your operating system and application. If you cannot remember the shortcut, simply copy this symbol: –. You can paste it into an email, document, article, or message.
How to Type an En Dash on Windows
On Windows, hold down Alt and type 0150 on the numeric keypad. Release the Alt key to insert an en dash. This method may not work with the number keys above the letters or on every keyboard layout.
How to Type an En Dash on Mac
On a Mac, press Option (⌥) + Hyphen (-) to type an en dash. This shortcut works in many standard Mac applications.
How to Insert an En Dash in Word and Google Docs
In Microsoft Word, use the keyboard shortcut or select the symbol from the Insert menu. In Google Docs, choose Insert → Special characters and search for “en dash.” Automatic formatting may also insert one in some situations.
How to Type an En Dash on a Phone
On an iPhone or Android device, open the keyboard’s symbol section and look for a dash variation. If you cannot find it, copy and paste – whenever you need it.
How to Copy and Paste an En Dash
If you need an en dash quickly, copying and pasting the symbol is a simple solution. Select the mark below, copy it, and paste it into your document or message.
En dash to copy: –
You can also use the symbol in emails, school assignments, website content, and social media posts. If you use the mark often, learn your device’s keyboard shortcut to save time. Remember that an en dash is different from a hyphen, even if both appear as short horizontal lines.
Should an En Dash Have Spaces?
Whether you should add spaces around an en dash depends on how you use it and which style guide you follow. For number and date ranges, writers generally do not add spaces around the mark. For example, write 2020–2025 and pages 10–15. Some style guides use spaces around an en dash when it connects words or phrases. Always follow your publisher’s, teacher’s, or employer’s preferred style.
Common En Dash Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced writers sometimes confuse an en dash with other punctuation marks. Avoid these common mistakes to keep your writing clear:
- Using a hyphen for every purpose: A hyphen joins words, while an en dash often shows a range.
- Mixing “from” with an en dash: Write “from 2020 to 2025” or “2020–2025.”
- Confusing an en dash with an em dash: Use an em dash for a strong break in a sentence.
- Ignoring spacing rules: Check the style guide you need to follow.
- Using an en dash in every compound word: Words such as well-known normally need a hyphen.
- Using “between” with a dash: Write “between 10 and 20,” not “between 10–20.”
En Dash in American and British English
American and British English both use the en dash to show ranges and connect related terms. However, punctuation style guides may differ in how they handle spacing and certain compound modifiers. Some styles prefer a closed-up en dash, while others use spaces in particular situations. These differences do not mean that one form is always wrong. If you are writing for a school, publisher, or website, follow its preferred style guide and keep your punctuation consistent throughout the article.
En Dash in Academic Writing
Students and researchers may use an en dash to show page ranges, date ranges, or relationships between terms. For example, a reference may include pages 45–52, while a history paper may discuss the years 1914–1918. Follow the citation style required by your school or publisher. Do not assume every style guide uses the same punctuation rules. For academic writing, consistency and accuracy matter more than choosing a particular style without checking the instructions.
En Dash vs. Minus Sign
An en dash (–) and a mathematical minus sign (−) look similar, but they serve different purposes. An en dash shows a range or connects related terms, as in 10–20. A minus sign represents subtraction or a negative number, as in 10 − 5 = 5. In ordinary writing, the marks may look alike, but mathematical and technical documents should use the correct character to avoid confusion.
En Dash vs. LMK
LMK is a common texting abbreviation that means “let me know.” It is not a punctuation mark and does not serve the same purpose as an en dash. An en dash (–) shows a range or connection, as in pages 10–15. LMK appears in informal messages, such as “LMK when you arrive.” Because these terms belong to different categories, you would not normally compare them as alternatives in writing. Use an en dash for punctuation and LMK only when its informal meaning fits the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions About the En Dash
1. What does an en dash mean?
An en dash (–) usually shows a range or connects related terms. For example, pages 10–20 shows a page range, while New York–London flight connects two places.
2. Can I use an en dash instead of a hyphen?
Not in every situation. Use a hyphen to join words such as part-time. Use an en dash for ranges or certain connections between terms.
3. Is an en dash longer than a hyphen?
Yes. An en dash is longer than a hyphen but shorter than an em dash. The three marks also serve different purposes.
4. Can an en dash replace the word “to”?
Yes. An en dash can show a range that means “to,” as in Monday–Friday. However, write “from Monday to Friday” when you use “from.”
5. How do I copy and paste an en dash?
Copy this symbol and paste it into your document: –. You can also use a keyboard shortcut or your word processor’s symbol menu.
6. What is the difference between an en dash and a minus sign?
An en dash shows a range or connection, while a minus sign (−) represents subtraction or a negative number in mathematics. They are different characters.
7. Can I use an en dash in formal writing?
Yes. An en dash is suitable for formal and academic writing when it follows the relevant style rules. Use it for ranges and appropriate connections between terms.
Final Thoughts
The en dash (–) is a useful punctuation mark that makes ranges and connections easier to understand. You can use it for dates, numbers, page ranges, related places, and certain compound modifiers. Remember that a hyphen joins words, while an em dash adds a break or extra information to a sentence. Once you understand these basic en dash rules, you can use the mark more confidently in everyday, academic, and professional writing. Always follow the relevant style guide when spacing or usage rules differ.
