Inside the unofficial movement to save the em dash - from A.I.
The em dash has picked up an odd stigma. Because many chatbots lean on it, some writers are cutting the mark from their work altogether - as if the dash itself is guilty.
That's a loss. The em dash is a precise tool. Overuse is the issue, not the punctuation. Used with intent, it's one of the cleanest ways to create a pause, sharpen emphasis, and control rhythm.
Why the em dash feels "AI-ish" right now
Large language models default to the em dash when they want a flexible pause without choosing between a comma, colon, or parentheses. Do that across a long draft and the pattern becomes obvious.
Readers spot patterns before they spot prose. Too many em dashes signal generic cadence and weak clause structure. The fix isn't banishment - it's craft.
Keep the em dash - use it with intent
Use an em dash when you want a sharper break than a comma, a looser feel than a colon, or a stronger aside than parentheses. One per sentence is usually enough. Two can work - three is noise.
Rule of thumb: if a colon or period makes the sentence clearer, use it. Save the em dash for emphasis you actually want the reader to feel.
Quick editing checks
- Search for "-" and scan density. More than 2-3 per 300 words? Trim.
- Test swaps: dash → colon for explanations; dash → comma for light asides; dash → period for clarity.
- Read aloud. If you're running out of breath, you're using dashes to prop up long sentences.
- Standardize spacing. Chicago style uses no spaces around the em dash; AP uses spaces around an en dash substitute. Pick one and stick to it.
If you draft with AI, set constraints upfront
Most models respond well to style limits. Tell them what to use - and what to avoid.
- Prompt constraint: "Limit em dashes to one per 300 words. Prefer periods and commas. Use colons for explanations."
- Revision pass: "Replace unnecessary em dashes with commas, colons, or periods. Keep any dash used for strong emphasis."
- Post-process: run a find/replace audit and then make judgment calls. Don't let automation set your voice.
If you want more structured prompt ideas, this resource can help: Prompt Engineering for writers.
Style notes worth bookmarking
The em dash is legitimate in formal writing - the issue is frequency and consistency. If you need a reference, these guides are clear and practical.
A simple cadence that beats the "AI" look
- Prefer short sentences to carry key ideas.
- Use one "hero" sentence per paragraph for emphasis - then cut the rest back.
- Vary punctuation: period, comma, colon, occasional dash. Let function guide form.
- Delete filler clauses before you reach for a dash to hold them up.
Bottom line
Don't retire the em dash. Retire the habit of using it as a crutch. Choose it for impact, keep it scarce, and your writing will sound like you - not a template.
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