0

In this following context, is the simple type of second part ''there exists not even for the life span...'' ?

Should the comma (,) after the word ''persistent'' be ''em dash (–)''?

Because I think the second part gave specific information on preceding state.

Explain this to me please...

the context:

Within these phenomena there exists nothing that is persistent, not even for the brief span of two consecutive moments.

Source: page.7 ''Fundamentals of Buddhism'' by Nyanatiloka Mahåthera

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1

An emdash would work, but the comma also works.

The word "even" here occupies the same role as the bolded words in sentences like these:

MSN Messenger was discontinued in 2013, partly because Skype chat was meant to replace it.

You are here for a reason, whether or not you perceive it.

This is a common use of the comma.

I would probably prefer the comma in your example because the emdash jars very slightly with the reverent tone, but I'm sure someone else might prefer the emdash stylistically.

Improve this answer
1
  • Do you say 'partly and whether' there are the same role with 'even'? Yes, some also recommended that ''You can use an em-dash if you like; both are common for marking parentheses.'' Thanks @Luke Sawczak.
    – Sakya Kim
    Commented Sep 29, 2022 at 9:54

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .