Ellipsis meaning, definition, and when to use it

What is an ellipsis?

Formally, an ellipsis is a punctuation mark consisting of three consecutive periods (...). Both the Chicago Manual of Style and the Modern Language Association (MLA) Handbook acknowledge its primary role in indicating an omission of words from a quoted text. It can also be used to indicate a pause, hesitation, or an unfinished thought.

Many people type an ellipsis as three separate periods, but most modern word processors and design software use a single, pre-composed glyph (…). This special character ensures consistent spacing and prevents the dots from separating at the end of a line.

How is an ellipsis formed?

The formation of an ellipsis can vary slightly depending on the style guide you follow. Some guides recommend spaces between the dots (. . .), while others prefer the single glyph with no spaces (…). The most common and easiest method is to use the single Unicode character.

Here's how you can type the ellipsis character on different devices:

• Windows: Alt + 0133 (using the numeric keypad)
• Mac: Option + ;
• iOS/Android: Press and hold the period key on the virtual keyboard.

Consistency is key. Whichever method you choose, use it consistently throughout your document for a clean, professional look.

Historical background

The word "ellipsis" comes from the ancient Greek word élleipsis, meaning "to fall short" or "omission." Its use in print dates back to the 16th century, where printers used a series of asterisks or dashes to indicate missing text in manuscripts. Over time, these marks evolved into the three-dot ellipsis we use today. Its function has also expanded from a simple mark of omission to a versatile tool in both formal and creative writing.

1. Omitting words in quotations

The most formal use of an ellipsis is to show that you have removed words from a direct quotation. This is common in academic and legal writing, where you need to shorten a quote to its most relevant parts without changing its original meaning.

For example, consider this original quote from a long document: "The committee, after much deliberation and considering all the available data, concluded that the project was, for all intents and purposes, a resounding success."

To shorten it, you could use an ellipsis: "The committee … concluded that the project was … a resounding success."

When you're working with lengthy source materials, it can be challenging to pull out the exact information you need. You can use a tool that lets you chat with PDF documents to quickly find and verify quotes, making your research process much more efficient.

2. Showing a pause or trailing thought

In creative writing, dialogue, and informal communication, an ellipsis is often used to create a pause for dramatic effect or to show a thought trailing off. This can make writing feel more natural and conversational. It invites the reader to fill in the gap, creating a sense of shared understanding or suspense. This technique is especially powerful in fiction and scriptwriting, where conveying subtext is crucial.

Here are a few examples:

• "I was just wondering … maybe you'd like to join us?" (hesitation)
• "He looked out at the horizon, lost in thought …" (trailing off)
• Social Media Post: "Just had the best coffee of my life … you won't believe where."
• Marketing Copy: "Our biggest sale of the year is coming … soon."

3. Indicating unfinished lists or cliff-hangers

An ellipsis can also be used to suggest that a list of items is not complete or to create a sense of suspense. This is a popular technique in persuasive and marketing copy to pique the reader's interest and encourage engagement. It implies that there is more to discover, prompting the reader to continue.

For instance:

• An AI resume builder can help you highlight your skills in communication, teamwork, leadership…
• The season finale ended with the hero cornered, and then…

Common mistakes to avoid

While versatile, the ellipsis can be misused. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overuse: Using too many ellipses in your writing can make it feel choppy and unprofessional.
• Inconsistent spacing: Stick to one style for spacing around your ellipsis.
• Multiple ellipses: Never use two or more ellipses in a row (e.g., "......"). One is always sufficient.
• Altering meaning: When omitting words from a quote, ensure the ellipsis doesn't change the original author's intended meaning.

When a dash is clearer

Use an em dash for an abrupt interruption or to add emphasis. An ellipsis would be too soft.

• With an ellipsis: "I was about to leave when … oh, never mind." (Feels hesitant)
• With a dash: "I was about to leave when—oh, never mind." (Feels more sudden)

When a colon is clearer

Use a colon to formally introduce a list or explanation. An ellipsis would create ambiguity.

• With an ellipsis: "We need a few things from the store … milk, bread, and cheese." (Feels like an incomplete thought)
• With a colon: "We need a few things from the store: milk, bread, and cheese." (Clear and direct)

To master these distinctions, practice is key. You can use a flashcard maker to help you study the different uses of punctuation marks and solidify your understanding.