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I have three cars — blue, red, and green — , two motorcycles, and four bicycles.

Is this a correct use of comma after an em-dash? It seems quite weird. How should I use an em-dash and a comma here?

Kris
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Chang
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  • The second dash is not needed, maybe even incorrect. – Kris Oct 29 '13 at 05:33
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    @Kris I disagree. Dashes usually appear in pairs when setting off an aside like this. Without the second dash, there's no marker for the end of the side comment. – Bradd Szonye Oct 29 '13 at 05:55
  • @BraddSzonye there is nothing parenthetical here. – Kris Oct 29 '13 at 06:07
  • The comma after the em dash is redundant. A semi-colon in place of the first em dash would be okay if the second em dash was also dropped. Either fix would work grammatically. – Stan Oct 29 '13 at 17:40
  • http://english.stackexchange.com/a/121912/14666 – Kris Oct 30 '13 at 06:56
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    The fact that the sentence enumerates three types of transportation means and introduces a parenthetical note for the colours of the first one (i.e. cars), seems to suggest to me that the comma should be kept. The reference pointed by @Kris refers to commas that "would ordinarily separate a dependent clause from an independent clause," not enumerations. – Carles Araguz Aug 27 '18 at 13:28

1 Answers1

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See "D-a-s-h-e-s" [pdf 512kB]

To prepare for a list, a restatement, an amplification, or a dramatic shift in tone or thought:

  • Along the wall are the bulk liquids—sesame oil, honey, safflower oil, and that half-liquid, “peanuts only” peanut butter.
  • In this last semester, Peter tried to pay more attention to his priorities—applying to graduate school and getting financial aid.
  • Everywhere we looked there were little kids—a box of Cracker Jacks in one hand and mommy or daddy’s sleeve in the other.
  • Kiere took a few steps back, came running full speed, kicked a mighty kick—and missed the ball.

In the first 2 examples, the writer could also use a colon. The colon is more formal than the dash and not quite as dramatic.

This is a case of both list and amplification. The phrase "blue, red, and green" lists and amplifies on "three cars."

Hellion
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Kris
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