Punctuation: meaning, definitions and examples

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punctuation

 

[ ˌpʌŋktʃuˈeɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in writing

The marks used in writing that help to separate sentences and clauses, and to clarify meaning by indicating pauses, stress, or intonation.

Synonyms

marks of punctuation, punctuation marks

Examples of usage

  • Punctuation marks include commas, periods, question marks, exclamation points, colons, and semicolons.
  • Proper punctuation is essential for clear and effective communication.
Context #2 | Noun

in language

The use of marks such as commas, periods, and question marks in writing to separate elements and clarify meaning.

Synonyms

marks of punctuation, punctuation marks

Examples of usage

  • Correct punctuation can make a significant difference in the interpretation of a sentence.
  • Poor punctuation can lead to misunderstandings.
Context #3 | Noun

general

The practice or system of using certain conventional marks or characters in writing or printing to separate elements and make the meaning clear.

Synonyms

marks of punctuation, punctuation marks

Examples of usage

  • Learning proper punctuation is an important aspect of mastering a language.
  • Good punctuation enhances the readability of a text.

Translations

Translations of the word "punctuation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pontuação

🇮🇳 विराम चिह्न

🇩🇪 Interpunktion

🇮🇩 tanda baca

🇺🇦 пунктуація

🇵🇱 interpunkcja

🇯🇵 句読点 (くとうてん)

🇫🇷 ponctuation

🇪🇸 puntuación

🇹🇷 noktalama

🇰🇷 구두점 (gudujeom)

🇸🇦 علامات الترقيم

🇨🇿 interpunkce

🇸🇰 interpunkcia

🇨🇳 标点符号 (biāodiǎn fúhào)

🇸🇮 ločila

🇮🇸 greinarmerki

🇰🇿 тыныс белгілері

🇬🇪 პუნქტუაცია

🇦🇿 durğu işarələri

🇲🇽 puntuación

Etymology

The word 'punctuation' originated from the Latin word 'punctuatio', which means 'a marking with points'. The use of punctuation marks dates back to ancient civilizations, such as the Greeks and Romans, who used them to indicate pauses and intonation in speech. Over time, punctuation evolved to include a variety of marks to help clarify meaning and structure in written language. Today, proper punctuation is considered essential for effective communication in various languages around the world.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,928, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.