What is an Ellipsis?

Every so often, a writer might decide to employ an ellipsis in their work. But what is ellipsis? An ellipsis is a punctuation mark that looks like three full stops in a row and is used for indicating a pause, drama, or a trailing off of thought.

Ellipsis as Punctuation

In punctuation, ellipses are used to indicate a pause in the sentence, or an unfinished thought. When used in text, it signals the reader to pause, or has the potential to suggest that something has been omitted. It is tempting to use the ellipsis many times in a piece of writing, but it is best used sparingly.

In dialogue, an ellipsis can also be used to indicate a trailed off or interrupted sentence. For example, “I thought it was the right thing to do …” It can also indicate a continuous sentence which gets cut off. For example, “I can’t believe she would do that … without consulting me first.”

In academic writing, an ellipsis may be used to indicate omitted words from a quote or paraphrased text. For example, “No one can deny … the importance of education.” In this instance, words such as “that” and “there is” have been omitted and replaced with an ellipsis.

Creative Uses of Ellipses

In creative writing, ellipses can be used to create suspense and tension. An ellipsis interrupts the normal flow of a sentence and makes a reader pause and consider what might come next. As such, it is often used in horror and suspenseful stories.

In fiction and poetry, writers may also use ellipses to suggest a dreamlike state, or to indicate a train of thought that isn’t quite finished (similar to how it can be used in dialogue). For example, “It seemed like I had been dreaming forever…”

It is important to note, however, that when using ellipses to suggest a pause or change in thought or tone, it should be done sparingly. Too much can create clutter and can devalue the intent of using an ellipsis in a particular work of literature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an ellipsis is a punctuation mark that looks like three full stops in a row and is used to indicate a pause, drama, or a trailing off of thought in text. It can be used to indicate a trailed off or interrupted dialogue, or in more creative works to create suspense and tension. When used in academic writing, it often indicates omitted words from a quote or paraphrased text. Ultimately, an ellipsis should be used sparingly, as overuse can create clutter and devalue any intention for using it.