Punctuation

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What is punctuation?

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Punctuation refers to the marks used in writing that help clarify meaning and separate linguistic units. Examples include periods, commas, question marks, and ellipses.

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What is an ellipsis?

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An ellipsis is a punctuation mark consisting of three dots (…). It indicates the omission of words, a pause, or unfinished thoughts.

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How is an ellipsis used to show omission?

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An ellipsis can replace words in a sentence to avoid repetition or to shorten a quote. For example: 'The committee decided to...'

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How is an ellipsis used to indicate a pause?

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An ellipsis can indicate a pause in speech or thought, suggesting hesitation or uncertainty. For example: 'I was thinking... maybe we should wait.'

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What is the correct punctuation for a sentence with a pause?

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A sentence with a pause can be punctuated with an ellipsis. For example: 'I don't know... it seems risky.'

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What is the purpose of a comma in a sentence?

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A comma is used to separate elements in a list, to set off introductory elements, or to separate clauses in a sentence.

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What is the function of a question mark?

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A question mark is used at the end of a sentence to indicate that it is a question.

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What is the correct way to punctuate a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence should be punctuated with a comma before the coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). For example: 'I wanted to go, but I was too tired.'

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How do you use a dash in a sentence?

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A dash (—) is used to create emphasis or to indicate a break in thought. For example: 'I was going to—oh, never mind!'

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What is the difference between a period and a question mark?

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A period (.) indicates the end of a declarative sentence, while a question mark (?) indicates the end of an interrogative sentence.