Ellipsis : Definition In English With Examples

Table of Contents

Ellipsis is a punctuation mark consisting of three dots (…). It’s commonly used in both spoken and written English to show where words have been left out, to create a pause for dramatic effect, or to show an incomplete thought. Learning about the ellipsis is essential for clear and engaging communication in English. In this guide, we’ll discuss what an ellipsis is, when to use it, and how it can improve your writing.

What is an Ellipsis?

An ellipsis (… or three dots) indicates missing words or an unfinished sentence. It allows the reader to pause and reflect on the words or to imagine what’s left unsaid.
In informal writing, it’s often used for dramatic effect, while in formal writing, it can indicate omitted information from a direct quote or text.

When to Use an Ellipsis

An ellipsis is used to create a pause, show omitted words, or indicate an unfinished thought. Here’s how and when to use an ellipsis effectively in sentences.

1. Indicating Omitted Words in Quotations

When quoting someone, you might need to leave out unnecessary details or irrelevant information. An ellipsis is used to show that part of the text has been removed, keeping only the main idea.

The committee discussed various issues … but ultimately decided to proceed with the original plan.

In this example, the ellipsis removes specific issues discussed, keeping the focus on the main decision.

2. Showing an Unfinished Thought or Sentence

An ellipsis can represent an incomplete thought, often suggesting uncertainty or leaving something implied. It adds suspense, inviting the reader to think about what might come next.

I thought I was ready … but I’m not so sure now.

Here, the ellipsis leaves room for interpretation, hinting that the speaker might have some doubts without fully explaining them.

3. Creating a Pause in Dialogue or Speech

In dialogue, an ellipsis can signal a pause, hesitation, or a moment of reflection. This makes writing feel more natural and closer to spoken language.

I’m just not sure … maybe we should think it over.

In this sentence, the ellipsis shows that the speaker is pausing, indicating uncertainty or giving the impression of deep thought.

4. Suggesting Ongoing or Incomplete Ideas

An ellipsis is also helpful when leaving an idea open-ended. It can imply that there’s more to come or that the thought isn’t fully developed.

The story doesn’t end here … there’s so much left to uncover.”

The ellipsis here adds a sense of mystery or anticipation, encouraging the reader to imagine what comes next.

Example Sentences with an Ellipsis

She looked out the window … wondering what could have been.

The ellipsis here creates a pause, conveying reflection or regret.
(Original: She looked out the window and was wondering what could have been.)

He started to explain, Well, I thought … and then stopped mid-sentence.

The ellipsis shows an unfinished thought, adding suspense and hesitation.
(Original: He started to explain, Well, I thought, and then stopped mid-sentence.)

The meeting was supposed to start at 10 … but no one showed up until noon.

The ellipsis emphasizes the delay, hinting at frustration or disbelief.
(Original: The meeting was supposed to start at 10, but no one showed up until noon.)

If I had known earlier … things might have turned out differently.

The ellipsis suggests regret and lets the reader imagine different possibilities.
(Original: If I had known earlier, things might have turned out differently.)

I wanted to tell him the truth … but I couldn’t bring myself to say it.

The ellipsis indicates hesitation, showing the speaker’s inner conflict.
(Original: I wanted to tell him the truth, but I couldn’t bring myself to say it.)

Using an Ellipsis to Show a Thought Fading Away

An ellipsis is often used to show when a speaker or character trails off into silence. This is especially helpful in conveying emotions like uncertainty, hesitation, or when words seem unnecessary because the meaning is implied.

Using an ellipsis in these cases lets the reader sense that something is left unsaid.

Here are examples where the ellipsis suggests a pause, leaving the sentence open-ended.

I thought you would understand …

This sentence leaves the reader feeling the speaker’s disappointment or regret without needing further words.

Maybe one day …

The ellipsis here implies hope or possibility, leaving the thought unfinished and open to interpretation.

It’s just that …

This usage shows hesitation, as if the speaker is unsure about how to continue, allowing the reader to feel the emotional weight.

I was going to tell you, but …

The ellipsis suggests reluctance, showing that the speaker holds back for some reason, perhaps due to fear or uncertainty.

There was something I wanted to say …

By trailing off, this sentence hints at an important or emotional thought that the speaker can’t quite express.

We could have tried harder …

The ellipsis conveys regret, leaving space for the reader to imagine what might have been different.

I don’t know … maybe we should just leave it.

Here, the ellipsis introduces hesitation, indicating that the speaker is unsure or conflicted.

You know, sometimes I wonder …

The ellipsis adds depth by showing an open-ended thought, as if the speaker is reflecting deeply or uncertainly.

It was all going so well, until …

This ellipsis leaves the sentence hanging, hinting at a sudden change or something left unspoken.

If only I had …

This expression of regret feels more powerful when left incomplete, as if the speaker is unwilling or unable to finish the thought.

Why Ellipsis Are Important

Ellipsis are important because they help convey emotions, create suspense, and leave space for the reader’s imagination, making writing more engaging and dynamic. By adding an ellipsis in a sentence,