Key Takeaways:
– An ellipsis is a punctuation mark used to indicate that something has been removed from a quote.
– In AP style, an ellipsis is three periods with a space on either side.
– Ellipses should not be used at the beginning or end of direct quotes, only in the middle.
– Ellipses can be combined with other punctuation marks, but they should always have spaces on either side.
– Ellipses should not be used to show a pause for emphasis.
The Purpose of Ellipses in Quotes
When quoting someone, it is sometimes necessary to omit certain words or phrases to maintain clarity or conciseness. This is where the ellipsis comes into play. The ellipsis serves as a visual indicator that something has been removed from the original quote. It allows the reader to understand that there is missing information without altering the meaning of the quote.
Proper Usage of Ellipses
In AP style, the standard format for an ellipsis is three periods with a space on either side. For example, “I love…chocolate.” This format ensures that the ellipsis is clearly distinguishable from other punctuation marks and does not blend in with the surrounding text. It is important to note that the ellipsis should only be used in the middle of a quote, not at the beginning or end.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake when using ellipses is failing to include spaces on either side. Without these spaces, the ellipsis can appear as a continuous string of periods, which can be confusing for the reader. Another mistake is using ellipses at the beginning or end of a quote. This can alter the meaning of the original quote and should be avoided.
Combining Ellipses with Other Punctuation Marks
Ellipses can be combined with other punctuation marks, such as commas, question marks, or exclamation points. However, it is important to maintain proper spacing. For example, “Are you sure about this…?” or “I can’t believe it…!”
The Importance of Mindful Usage
Using ellipses mindfully is crucial to ensure that the meaning of the original quote is not distorted. It is important to only remove words or phrases that are not essential to the overall meaning of the quote. Additionally, ellipses should not be used to create a pause for emphasis. This can lead to misinterpretation and confusion.
Ellipses and Emphasis
Contrary to popular belief, ellipses should not be used to show a pause for emphasis. Instead, other punctuation marks, such as dashes or colons, should be used. Ellipses are specifically used to indicate omitted words or phrases, not to create dramatic pauses.
Examples of Correct Usage
To further illustrate the proper usage of ellipses, here are a few examples:
1. Original Quote: “I can’t wait to see you tomorrow!”
Omitted Words: “I can’t wait…to see you tomorrow!”
2. Original Quote: “The secret to success is hard work, dedication, and perseverance.”
Omitted Words: “The secret to success is…hard work, dedication, and perseverance.”
3. Original Quote: “I’m not sure if I can make it…”
Omitted Words: “I’m not sure if I can make it…”
Conclusion:
Ellipses play a crucial role in indicating omitted words or phrases in quotes. Proper usage of ellipses involves following AP style guidelines, including using three periods with spaces on either side and placing them only in the middle of a quote. It is important to avoid common mistakes, such as omitting spaces or using ellipses at the beginning or end of a quote. Mindful usage of ellipses ensures that the original meaning of the quote is preserved. Remember, ellipses should not be used to create pauses for emphasis. By understanding and applying these guidelines, writers can effectively use ellipses in quotes without distorting the intended message.
