* Omission of words: This is the most common use. When quoting a passage, ellipses show that some words have been left out.
* Example: "The cat sat on the mat... and then it jumped down."
* Incomplete thought or trailing off: Ellipses can suggest that a thought is unfinished, a sentence is trailing off, or that there is more to be said.
* Example: "I wonder... what's going to happen next?"
* Hesitation or pause: In dialogue, ellipses can show a character is hesitating or pausing before continuing.
* Example: "Well... I guess I could try that."
* Dramatic effect: Ellipses can create suspense or add a sense of mystery to writing.
* Example: "The door creaked open... and then there was silence."
Important Notes:
* Spacing: In most style guides, there is a single space between each period in an ellipsis.
* At the end of a sentence: When used at the end of a sentence, an ellipsis is followed by a period.
* After a complete sentence: When used to indicate an omission after a complete sentence, an ellipsis is preceded by a period.
Examples:
* "I have a dream... that one day..." (Omission of words)
* "He looked out the window, lost in thought... wondering where life would take him." (Trailing off)
* "I... I don't know what to say." (Hesitation)
* "The footsteps grew closer... closer... closer." (Suspense)