---
title: "Are em dashes bad writing?"
description: "No. A well-placed dash is good writing. It can add a sharp break or set off a surprise, and skilled writers use it on purpose.The problem is overuse. When the dash replaces every comma, period, and..."
url: https://removeaitells.com/faq-items/are-em-dashes-bad-writing/
date: 2026-09-20
modified: 2026-09-20
author: "Remove AI Tells"
type: faq
lang: en
---

# Are em dashes bad writing?

No. A well-placed dash is good writing. It can add a sharp break or set off a surprise, and skilled writers use it on purpose.

The problem is overuse. When the dash replaces every comma, period, and colon, it stops adding voice and starts adding sameness. Used once in a while, it's a tool. Used constantly, it's a tell.