New answers tagged style
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How to refer to alternate versions of a character in a non-sci-fi way?
Firstly, I would like to say that I deeply enjoyed your sample writing. It included details and comaprisons that made such a beautiful picture in my mind, and I think you have great potential as a ...
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Spacing around (and types of) dashes in American English
There is nothing right or wrong, but thinking makes it so
In short, it doesn't matter. As the author, just write it as you are comfortable. Don't inhibit your creativity and expression by dissipating ...
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Spacing around (and types of) dashes in American English
Most major American style guides say that an em-dash must not be surrounded by spaces. However, there is one exception (that I know of):
AP (p. 368): An em dash, like an ellipsis, has a space before ...
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Spacing around (and types of) dashes in American English
Yes. To Amercians used to the American typographic convention using an en dash with spaces will appear just as "wrong" as the em dash without spaces appears to you.
The same goes for ...
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Are fake movie titles mentioned in dialogue italicized?
Treat fake titles the same way as real titles.
There's no reason why it should be different. The only question to be answered is if that means italics or no italics.
Most fiction uses italics
The rule ...
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Are fake movie titles mentioned in dialogue italicized?
In fiction (which you seem to ask about, since you mention dialogue), in the narration, titles of movies or books are commonly printed in italics, following the convention for non-fiction:
They ...
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Usage of "Dubious" - Descriptor of noun versus feeling?
Within my own fiction writing I find I lean more towards using "I felt doubtful towards that person" rather than dubious. Then when it comes to buildings, larger areas and abstract terms I ...
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What's Essential In A Combat Scene?
One point that's touched on but left out in other answers - the craft of language choice. High action, fast paced combat scenes, require a change in language and structure:
Use shorter sentences. ...
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Is it overkill to follow style-guides for technical writing?
Because this thread is still referenced by the general public, I would like to update this reference to the Microsoft Manual of Style for Technical Writers. My preference for all things related to ...
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How can I write in first person present tense without it being annoying or distracting?
First person present tense narration gives the sense of watching a stream of the hero's direct perception and experience as it is happening. It's a good choice if you want to show your reader what the ...
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How to describe an angry voice in dialogue?
I believe you may have been looking for the word gruffly:
Hearing this, I dropped to my knees, and grabbed his face, “Have you absolutely lost your mind?” I said gruffly.
I could absolutely be wrong ...
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