Have you ever typed -- in a message, or maybe spotted it in an online command, and wondered what it really stands for? The double dash might look simple, but it’s a multitasker in grammar, tech, and even food delivery apps. Let’s explore all the surprising places you’ll find it.
The Double Dash in Writing
In English writing, the double dash is often used to stand in for the em dash (—), which is a long dash that creates pauses or adds dramatic emphasis. Since most keyboards don’t make it easy to type, people just use two hyphens instead.
You’ll see it pop up in situations like:
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To emphasize a point: I didn’t just trip--I went flying!
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To add side notes: My cousin--the one in California--is coming to visit.
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To show interruptions: “Wait--what was that noise?”
👉 Fun note: Some call the em dash the “Swiss Army knife” of punctuation because it can replace commas, parentheses, or colons depending on the sentence.
The Double Dash in Coding and Commands
In the world of programming and command lines, the double dash has a completely different role. It tells the computer: “Stop reading options here.”
For example:
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Typing
--helpusually pulls up instructions for a program. -
Adding
--before an entry makes sure the system doesn’t confuse it for a command. -
Developers use it every day when testing or writing software.
This tiny detail can make or break how a program runs—one missing dash, and the computer might not understand what you want.
The Double Dash in Everyday Chats
Outside of formal writing, the double dash has become a casual way to show a pause, hesitation, or trailing thought in texts and online conversations.
Examples you might see:
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I was going to say something--but never mind.
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That movie was good--not great, but good.
It’s not formal grammar, but it makes digital conversations feel more natural, almost like spoken words.
DoubleDash: A DoorDash Feature for Restaurants
Here’s where things get fun—the double dash isn’t only for punctuation or coding. DoubleDash is also the name of a DoorDash feature that helps customers add items from a nearby store to their main order without extra delivery fees. Think grabbing boba tea with your noodles or dessert with your burger, all in one go.
Here are some common questions merchants ask about it:
Q. What exactly is DoubleDash?
It’s a feature that lets customers add products from a second nearby store to their original order, all in one delivery.
Q. Why should restaurants care?
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Your store gets extra visibility in-app.
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More orders—studies show many DoubleDash customers order again within the same month.
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Access to new customers—almost half of DoubleDash orders come from people who’ve never tried that second store before.
Q. Will my food arrive cold if bundled with another order?
No. Deliveries are designed to stay quick. On average, only about six extra minutes are added, and surveys show customers don’t notice a drop in food quality.
Q. Does this hurt my sales if people order from other places?
Not at all. Customers lock in their first order before seeing DoubleDash options, so your sales aren’t replaced—they’re just boosted by add-ons.
Q. How do I see my DoubleDash orders?
They show up in the same system (Mx Portal) as your regular Marketplace or Pickup orders. Right now, they aren’t flagged separately, but updates may come.
Q. Who can use it?
If you’re a U.S.-based restaurant, you’re eligible.
Q. How do I join?
You can reach out to Support to request inclusion if your store isn’t already participating.
Q. What about promotions?
At this time, promotions don’t appear in DoubleDash orders, but that may change in the future.
Q. What hours is it available?
It follows your Marketplace hours.
Q. Can I pick which items show up?
No—the DoubleDash menu mirrors your Marketplace menu for consistency.
Q. What is “Something for Everyone”?
It’s another feature that helps group orders by allowing people to mix items from two different restaurants in one order.
Quirky Facts About the Double Dash
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In the days of typewriters, the double dash was the easiest way to mimic an em dash.
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In some Asian online chats,
--is used like an emoji to show frustration or tiredness. -
Author Emily Dickinson famously used dashes so much that it became a signature of her writing style.
Personal Insight
I love how the double dash has managed to sneak into so many parts of life. I used it a lot in essays before I learned keyboard shortcuts for the em dash, and I still catch myself doing it in texts. Now, knowing it’s also tied to ordering food makes me smile—it’s literally a symbol that connects words, tech, and even dinner.
Wrapping It Up
So, what does double dash mean? In writing, it’s a stand-in for the em dash that adds flair and emphasis. In coding, it keeps commands running smoothly. And thanks to DoorDash, it’s even helping restaurants reach more hungry customers.
Do you ever use the double dash in your writing--or have you tried DoubleDash when ordering food? I’d love to know!