Elision: meaning, definitions and examples

Elision is often used in linguistics to describe the omission of a sound or syllable when speaking. It typically occurs in casual or rapid speech to make words easier to say.

• In the phrase 'I'm going to', elision makes it sound like 'I'm gonna'.
• Elision of the 'd' sound in 'handbag' makes it sound like 'hanbag'.

Omission means leaving something out either deliberately or accidentally. It is often used in formal writing, law, and conversation to discuss what is excluded or forgotten.

• The omission of his name from the guest list was an oversight.
• The omission of crucial details in the report led to confusion.

Deletion refers to the act of removing or omitting something, often in the context of text, data, or genes. It is used in both everyday and technical language, sometimes carrying a neutral or negative connotation depending on the context.

• The deletion of unnecessary files helped free up space on the hard drive.
• A genetic mutation involving the deletion of a gene can lead to various medical conditions.

Abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or phrase used to save space or time. It is commonly used in writing, texting, and other forms of communication to simplify and quicken conversations.

• The abbreviation 'Dr.' stands for 'Doctor'.
• People often use 'FYI' as an abbreviation for 'For Your Information'.

Used in linguistics to describe the omission of a sound or syllable when speaking. It can also refer to the act of leaving out certain details or parts of something more broadly.

• In poetry, the elision of syllables can create a more rhythmic flow.
• The speaker's elision of key points left the audience confused.

Commonly used to describe the act of mixing two or more things together smoothly and harmoniously. This word is versatile and can be applied to contexts ranging from cooking to social interactions.

• The smoothie is a blend of fresh fruits and yogurt.
• Her style is a unique blend of traditional and modern fashion.

Typically used to describe a physical or metaphorical connection between two or more things. Often used in the context of technology and hyperlinks on the internet, but it can also be used more generally.

• He sent me a link to an interesting article.
• Doctors have found a link between certain diets and improved health outcomes.

Used to describe the action of joining or linking two or more entities. It can refer to both physical connections and more abstract, social connections.

• The two cities are connected by a high-speed train.
• Networking events are a great way to connect with professionals in your industry.

This word is often used in linguistics and literature to describe the omission of a sound or syllable when speaking. It's commonly seen in poetry and song lyrics where certain sounds are dropped for rhythm and meter.

• In 'I've' the 'ha' sound is omitted, which is an elision.
• Shakespeare often used elision to fit iambic pentameter.

This is most commonly used in grammar to describe the shortened form of a word or group of words by omission of certain letters or sounds. Contractions are usually noted with an apostrophe.

• 'Can't' is a contraction of 'cannot'.
• 'They're' is a contraction of 'they are'.

This word refers to the act of making something shorter in general, whether it is time, length, or written text. It's a broader term compared to 'contraction' or 'elision'.

• The meeting's duration was shortened due to lack of time.
• They are working on shortening the text to fit the page.

This term is more technical and is used in various fields such as computer science, physics, and material science to refer to reducing size, volume, or data. It does not specifically refer to spoken or written language.

• The file compression saved a lot of space on my hard drive.
• Compression of gases is a standard process in refrigeration.