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Ellipsis: meaning, definitions and examples

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ellipsis

 

[ ɪˈlɛp.sɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

punctuation mark

An ellipsis is a series of three dots (...) used to indicate the omission of words, a pause in speech, or an unfinished thought. It can also suggest that there is more to be said or that a thought trails off. In formal writing, ellipses are often used to shorten quotations by removing unnecessary words.

Synonyms

omission, suspension.

Examples of usage

  • I wasn't sure if I wanted to go out tonight...
  • She said she might come... but I'm not sure.
  • The instructions were unclear...
  • To be continued...

Translations

Translations of the word "ellipsis" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reticências

🇮🇳 ellipsis

🇩🇪 Auslassungspunkte

🇮🇩 ellipsis

🇺🇦 еліпсис

🇵🇱 ellipsa

🇯🇵 エリプシス

🇫🇷 ellipse

🇪🇸 elipsis

🇹🇷 elips

🇰🇷 생략 부호

🇸🇦 حذف

🇨🇿 elipsa

🇸🇰 elipsa

🇨🇳 省略号

🇸🇮 elipsa

🇮🇸 ellipsa

🇰🇿 эллипсис

🇬🇪 ელიფსისი

🇦🇿 ellips

🇲🇽 elipsis

Etymology

The term 'ellipsis' comes from the Greek word 'elleipsis', which means 'to fall short' or 'to leave out'. It has been used in English since the early 16th century, originally referring to a rhetorical device that indicates omission. The three dots that represent the ellipsis are often called 'points of omission'. Over time, its usage has evolved to not only signify omitted text but also to create pauses and indicate unfinished thoughts in both literature and everyday conversation. The ellipsis is a useful tool in writing, allowing authors to control pacing and create suspense or ambiguity.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,276, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.