Ellipsis facts for kids

An ellipsis is a type of punctuation mark. In writing, it is a row of three points (...). It is just three points; it is never acceptable to use two or four, even if one intends a shorter or longer pause. Its name comes from the ancient Greek word ἔλλειψις (omission/falling short). Notice that the three dots are not spaced as full points: they are a separate special typographic sign.

Depending on context and place in a sentence, ellipses can indicate an unfinished thought, a leading statement, a slight pause, a mysterious or echoing voice, or a nervous or awkward silence. An ellipsis can be used to trail off into silence—for example: But I thought he was...

• So much more could be said...

When text is quoted from a book or a newspaper, it stands for words that have been cut out to save space in a page. For example:

• "...one day all Americans will live peacefully throughout the world...they will be at peace with all other world inhabitants..."

When speaking, it can be referred to as "dot-dot-dot".

Other pages

• Punctuation

Images for kids

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  A drop-down menu of file operations

See also

In Spanish: Puntos suspensivos para niños