Define ellipsis Some others include the fact that they can save time and appear as a stylistic element. Ellipsis (or elliptical construction) is the omission of a word or words. ELLIPSE definition: 1. Elipsis synonyms, Elipsis pronunciation, Elipsis translation, English dictionary definition of Elipsis. One refers to the punctuation mark that writers use to indicate that some of the original text is missing (for a quoted source) or that their thought is incomplete. (pronounced fo-sigh) ellipsis meaning, definition, what is ellipsis: when words are deliberately left out of : Learn more. Ellipsis Definition An ellipsis (uh-LIP-suhs) is an omission of words or events that allows readers to fill the gaps in the sentence or narrative. The ellipsis is usually formed by three periods (four if the ellipsis comes at the end of a sentence). Known casually as dot, dot, dot, the ellipsis is a favorite tool of writers because it can symbolize silence in text, but it’s also used more practically to show that a direct quote has been altered See full list on grammarist. Definition of ellipsis noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. In contrast to a circle, an ellipse has an oval shape. An ellipsis, or ellipses in the plural form, is a punctuation mark of three dots (. . It is formed around two focal points, and these points act as its collective center. Ellipse is a conic section component with properties similar to a circle. 'omission') or an elliptical construction is the omission from a clause of one or more words that are nevertheless understood in the context of the remaining elements. Vertex: Points on the ellipse where the Feb 11, 2025 · Plural of ellipsis: Navigating the intricacies of English grammar can sometimes feel like traversing a labyrinth. The omitted information can represent quoted material, indicate hesitation, or signify trailing off in speech or thought. Enhance your writing style! A closed conic section shaped like a flattened circle and formed by an inclined plane that does not. ” Is the plural form “ellipsis” or “ ellipses “? This guide demystifies this grammatical conundrum, providing a clear explanation of the correct plural usage. ellipses synonyms, ellipses pronunciation, ellipses translation, English dictionary definition of ellipses. " There are two different literary definitions of ellipsis. Introduction to Ellipsis An ellipsis is a commonly used punctuation mark in written English. By definition, the ellipse is * the set of points in a plane such that the sum of the distances to the two points equals k *. If a = b the ellipse is a circle. Examples 1) Ellipsis points indicate the omission of one or more words within a quoted sentence, as in the following Ellipse definition: a plane curve such that the sums of the distances of each point in its periphery from two fixed points, the foci, are equal. . In an ellipse, if you make the major and minor axis the same length, the result is a circle, with both foci at the center. Definition, Usage and a list of Ellipsis Examples in common speech and literature. It consists of three consecutive full stops (…). It is used to emphasize a point, create suspense, or draw attention to a particular part of a sentence. Learn how to use it in grammar, printing, and speech, and see synonyms, antonyms, and translations. This article provides a comprehensive guide to ellipsis, covering its definition, types, usage rules, common mistakes, and ELLIPSIS meaning: 1 : the act of leaving out one or more words that are not necessary for a phrase to be understood; 2 : a sign (such as …) used in printed text to show that words have been left out Definition of ellipsis in the Definitions. An ellipsis is a series of three consecutive periods known as ellipsis points used to indicate where words have been omitted from quoted text, or to Discover everything about the word "ELLIPSIS" in English: meanings, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one comprehensive guide. Its total length is 2 a, where a is the semi-major axis. This article will show you the importance of Ellipsis. Leaving out part of a sentence Apr 26, 2018 · Introduction Ellipsis in linguistics refers to a construction whose phonological form is missing relative to the form that construction should have considering the meaning it denotes. Mismatch between form and meaning requires that meaning associated with the gap be somehow recoverable; in that sense, ellipsis differs from deletion, such as deletion of features. Ellipsis (pronounced il-LIP-sis) refers to both a grammatical concept and a punctuation mark. It has two focus Ellipse An ellipse is a 2D figure in the shape of an oval. Also called: eclipsis omission of parts of a word or sentence 2. 5 days ago · The meaning of ELLIPSES is plural of ellipse. The locus of 3 meanings: → See ellipsis 1. The lesson also shows solved problems Ellipsis (computer programming) In computer programming, ellipsis notation (. ” As noted above, ellipses can be used for different reasons. Omit any punctuation on either side of the ellipsis, unless the punctuation is necessary to make the shortened quotation grammatically correct. Oct 24, 2025 · Parts of an Ellipse Center: The midpoint of the major axis of an ellipse; the point equidistant from the foci and defining the geometric symmetry of the ellipse. Jan 27, 2010 · Ellipsis Definition Ellipsis is a literary device that is used in narratives to omit some parts of a sentence or event, which gives the reader a chance to fill the gaps while acting or reading it out. net dictionary. Define ellipses. What does ellipsis mean? Information and translations of ellipsis in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. In a dialogue or narrative, the ellipsis shows faltering speech or a pause. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and using ellipsis effectively. A conic section whose plane is not parallel to the axis, base, or generatrix of the intersected cone. Mastering ellipsis enhances fluency, avoids unnecessary repetition, and makes our writing and speech more concise and natural. An ellipse has an eccentricity below one and represents the locus of points whose distances from the ellipse’s two foci are a constant value. To fully grasp the application and importance of ellipses, it’s crucial to explore various examples and contexts in which they are employed. Depending on context and place in a sentence, ellipses can indicate an unfinished thought, a leading statement, a Ellipse definition: A plane curve, especially:. It is also the name of the punctuation mark (“…”) used to indicate missing words, a pause, or an unfinished thought. Notice that the three dots are not spaced as full points: they are a separate special typographic sign. An Ellipse is a geometric shape defined by its two focal points, major and minor axes. Ellipse, from Greek elleipsis meaning "a falling short," entered English in the 1560s via Latin; it denotes a geometric oval and a grammatical omission. We can also define ellipse as the shape formed when a straight plane intersects a right circular cone at an angle greater than zero degrees. Definition and properties of an ellipse Relation to a circle A circle is actually a special case of an ellipse. This results in the two-center bipolar coordinate equation r_1+r_2=2a, (1) where a is the semimajor axis and the origin of the coordinate system Definition of Ellipsis The word “ellipses” comes from the Greek “élleipsis” meaning “omission” or “falling short. Ellipses are usually used in Nov 14, 2021 · What is an ellipsis? According to Grammar Monster, an ellipsis, also called ellipsis points, are a punctuation mark like a comma, question mark, full stop, quotation mark, exclamation point, colon, parentheses, exclamation mark, em das h, square brackets, semicolons, hyphens, and more. ” In writing, the ellipsis serves to indicate missing words, pauses, or unfinished thoughts, making it a versatile tool in both formal and informal writing. Theoretical accounts of ellipsis seek to explain its Illustrated definition of Ellipse: An ellipse usually looks like a squashed circle (in fact a circle is a special kind of ellipse). They both are used in the same sense, with an ellipsis being used to indicate elements that have been left out in a phrase, sentence, or paragraph. Ellipsis definition: . a curve in the shape of an oval. Aug 3, 2023 · Definition An ellipse is a closed curved plane formed by a point moving so that the sum of its distance from the two fixed or focal points is always constant. Click for more definitions. $$ \overline {PF_1} + \overline {PF_1} = 2a $$ For example, if we take An ellipse may also be defined in terms of one focal point and a line outside the ellipse called the directrix: for all points on the ellipse, the ratio between the distance to the focus and the distance to the directrix is a constant, called the eccentricity: Ellipses are common in physics, astronomy and engineering. The plane has to be inclined at an angle with respect to the base of the cone because if the plane is Nov 21, 2023 · This lesson focuses on describing an ellipse. Oct 6, 2025 · Another definition of an ellipse is that it is the locus of points for which the sum of their distances from two fixed points (the foci) is constant. Definition of an ellipse An ellipse is defined as the set of all points in the Cartesian plane, which have a distance from two fixed points (known as foci) that add up to form a constant value. Understanding this enhances one’s writing skills and enriches the reading experience Ellipsis is the narrative device of omitting a portion of the sequence of events, allowing the reader to fill in the narrative gaps. Sep 1, 2022 · Three periods in a row may seem excessive, but they actually mean something. ellipsis: An ellipsis is a series of three or more periods () inserted into a sentence to indicate a pause or silence. There are four meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun ellipsis, two of which are labelled obsolete. Jul 17, 2020 · An ellipsis is a punctuation mark consisting of three dots used to indicate an intentional omission, a pause in speech, and more. The figure below shows two ellipses. Free, unlimited, online practice. The smaller the distance between the foci, the smaller is the eccentricity and the more closely the ellipse resembles a circle. Ellipsis definition: the omission from a sentence or other construction of one or more words that would complete or clarify the construction, as the omission of who are, while I am, or while we are from I like to interview people sitting down. But like every punctuation mark in English, there are rules and guidelines Definition and a list of examples of ellipsis. Most programming languages require the ellipsis to be written as a series of periods; a single (Unicode) ellipsis character cannot be used. What exactly is an ellipsis, and how do you use it correctly in grammar? 6 days ago · An ellipse is a curve that is the locus of all points in the plane the sum of whose distances r_1 and r_2 from two fixed points F_1 and F_2 (the foci) separated by a distance of 2c is a given positive constant 2a (Hilbert and Cohn-Vossen 1999, p. An ellipsis is a punctuation mark made up of three dots. 2 meanings: 1. Mar 11, 2025 · Ellipsis Definition in English with Examples. Use an ellipsis when omitting a word, phrase, line, paragraph, or more from a quoted passage. a regular oval shape 2. Nov 7, 2025 · An ellipsis is a literary device where words are deliberately omitted, leaving gaps for readers to interpret. in this blog post, you will Lear about Ellipsis, When to Use it and What are the Rules of Ellipsis. Ellipsis is the omission of a word or series of words. Define Elipsis. Learn how to use them in a sentence with these examples and best practices. Mastering ellipsis enhances fluency, avoids unnecessary repetition, and makes your writing and speech more concise. Worksheet generator. It is used to show an omission of a word or words, to create a pause for effect, or to show an unfinished thought. Gain an in-depth understanding of ellipsis, its grammatical and stylistic functions in writing, historical origins, and its various usage scenarios. Click for pronunciations, examples sentences, video. The ellipse is also defined as a conic section that is formed when a plane intersects a cone. ). In general, ellipsis requires Ellipsis: Master the art of omission! Learn how to use ellipses correctly to indicate pauses or omitted text. Learn how to use ellipsis correctly without losing the meaning of the sentence and confusing others. They are useful in getting right to the point without delay or distraction: Nov 8, 2025 · ellipsis (countable and uncountable, plural ellipses) (typography, mathematics) A mark consisting of multiple full stops (with or without spaces), used to indicate omitted, missing, or illegible words; or (in mathematics) that a pattern continues. printing a sequence of three dots (…) indicating. The meaning of ELLIPSIS is the omission of one or more words that are obviously understood but that must be supplied to make a construction grammatically complete. 1. Simple examples of the ellipse in our daily life is the shape of an egg in a two-dimensional form, the running tracking in a sports stadium, etc. Ellipsis - English Grammar Today - a reference to written and spoken English grammar and usage - Cambridge Dictionary Definition of ellipsis noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. In grammar, ellipsis occurs when we omit words from a sentence but the meaning remains clear. Ellipses save space or remove material that is less relevant. ) that indicates the removal of information in writing. or ) is used to denote ranges, an unspecified number of arguments, or a parent directory. 2 senses: 1. It is different from ellipsis in grammar (the three-dot mark used to indicate omission in a sentence). Aug 1, 2024 · An ellipsis is a punctuation mark consisting of three consecutive dots (…). See examples of ELLIPSE used in a Definition An ellipse if we speak in terms of locus, it is the set of all points on an XY-plane, whose distance from two fixed points (known as foci) adds up to a constant value. Its name comes from the ancient Greek word ἔλλειψις (omission/falling short). a regular oval shape 3. An ellipsis is punctuation that is used to show where words have been left out. synonyms quotations Synonyms: (colloquial) dot dot dot, suspension dots, suspension points May 16, 2025 · We define the major axis and minor axis of the ellipse, respectively, as the longest and shortest diameters passing through its center. In punctuation, we use the ellipsis mark [] to show omissions, pauses or unfinished thoughts. An ellipsis is a punctuation mark () that shows an omission in a text. printing a sequence of three dots. Define ellipse. Ellipsis - English Grammar Today - a reference to written and spoken English grammar and usage - Cambridge Dictionary An *ellipse* is determined by two points, and a constant (k), where k is greater than the distance between the two points. Clear definition and examples of Ellipsis. ELLIPSIS meaning: 1. It is a conic section formed by the intersection of a right circular cone by a plane that cuts the axis and the surface of the cone. It’s not meant to be read literally but helps to create a specific effect or convey a particular tone. Oct 8, 2024 · Ellipsis the rhetorical device is not the same as “ellipsis” the punctuation mark (. Sep 30, 2022 · What is an ellipsis? And what is the definition of the ellipsis? To better understand how to use the ellipsis in American English, use these examples. See Drawing an ellipse with string and pins Other In linguistics, ellipsis (Ancient Greek: ἔλλειψις, romanized: élleipsis, lit. The Property of an Ellipse Definition, Usage and a list of Ellipsis Examples in common speech and literature. Oct 11, 2020 · An ellipsis is a series of three dots. " Gain a grasp on this punctuation's role in writing and see it in action. Ellipsis points are periods in groups of usually three, or sometimes four. ” Oct 23, 2019 · Definition: An ellipsis (plural: ellipses) is a punctuation mark consisting of three dots. Ellipsis is a literary device that is used in narratives to omit some parts of a sentence or event, which gives the reader a chance to fill the gaps while acting or reading it out. An ellipse usually looks like a squashed circle F is a focus, G is a focus, and together they are called foci. Discover the meaning and role of ellipsis in English communication. See Circle definition How to draw an ellipse There are some practical ways to draw an ellipse of a given size. Style guides differ on how to render an ellipsis both digitally and in print. It can also be used to mark silent pauses or to show hesitation. Style manuals and style guides like APA, MLA handbook, or the Chicago Manual of Style (AKA Chicago Style What is Ellipsis? – Definition An ellipsis is a punctuation mark consisting of three dots (…) used to indicate an omission, a pause, or a trailing off in thought. It originates from the Greek word “élleipsis,” meaning “omission” or “falling short. (grammar) Ellipsis, the removal from a phrase of a word which is Ellipses Definition An ellipsis (plural: ellipses) is a punctuation mark consisting of three dots. Whether you are an Ellipse An ellipse is a plane figure defined as the set of points where the sum of the distances from two fixed points, F 1 and F 2, called foci, is constant and greater than the distance between the foci. See examples of ELLIPSIS used in a sentence. com ELLIPSIS definition: 1. We usually think of it as looking like a "flattened" or "stretched" circle. How to use ellipsis in a sentence. printing a sequence of three dots (…). One common point of confusion arises with the word “ ellipsis. A plane cutting a cone or cylinder at certain angles can create an intersection in the shape of an ellipse, as shown in red in the figures below. If the cone is intersected by the plane, parallel to the base, then it forms a circle. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Ellipse Shape In Jul 14, 2025 · Ellipsis, a fascinating and frequently used feature in English grammar, allows us to omit words or phrases that are understood from the context. a situation in which words are left out of a sentence but the sentence can still be understood…. ellipse synonyms, ellipse pronunciation, ellipse translation, English dictionary definition of ellipse. That's the basics. It discusses its elements, equations, and different types. Aside from its literary use, the ellipsis has a counterpart in film production. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. The ellipse is one of the conic sections, that is produced, when a plane cuts the cone at an angle with the base. Origin of Ellipse French from Latin ellīpsis from Greek elleipsis a falling short, ellipse from elleipein to fall short (from the relationship between the line joining the vertices of a conic and the line through the focus and parallel to the directrix of a conic) en- in en– 2 leipein to leave leikw- in Indo-European roots From American Ellipsis is a literary device used to omit words from a sentence or phrase, often to create a more concise and impactful statement. Typical equation: (x 2 / a2 ) + (y 2 / b2 ) = 1. The sum of the distances from any point on the ellipse to the two foci is constant. Learn more. Definition of ellipsis noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. It is usually written between the sentences as a series of three dots, like this: “…” Apart from being convenient, ellipses also help in advancing the story. 2). Nov 1, 2025 · ellipse (plural ellipses) (geometry) A closed curve, the locus of a point such that the sum of the distances from that point to two other fixed points (called the foci of the ellipse) is constant; equivalently, the conic section that is the intersection of a cone with a plane that does not intersect the base of the cone. Here we shall aim at knowing the definition of an ellipse, the derivation of the equation of an ellipse, and the different standard forms of equations of the ellipse. We’ll delve into the definition of ellipsis Apr 5, 2022 · Ellipses are used to indicate omissions, usually in quotes, and indicate pauses. The major axis lies along the direction of maximum extension of the ellipse and passes through both foci. The locus of 3 senses: → See ellipsis 1. Now we'll dig in to how they're used. In a quotation, an ellipsis signifies omitted words. n. Jul 5, 2025 · Ellipsis, a subtle yet powerful tool in the English language, allows us to streamline our sentences by omitting words or phrases that are understood from the context. Feb 25, 2025 · An ellipsis (plural ellipses) is the deliberate omission of one or more words from a sentence because their meaning is implied by context. Definition of an ellipse Mathematically, an ellipse is a 2D closed curve where Ellipsis derives from the Greek work élleipsis, meaning "to fall short" or "omission. Ellipsis is a grammatical term written as a symbol that appears as a sequence of dots Feb 13, 2024 · Definition How to use Examples What is an ellipsis? An ellipsis (plural form ellipses) is a punctuation mark consisting of three dots (. ) that shows an omission of words, represents a pause, or suggests there’s something left unsaid. Ellipses can be found in our daily lives in a variety of places, including the two-dimensional shape of an egg and the Ellipses for omitted material within a single quoted sentence Use ellipsis points to show omission within the quotation. Explore the Ellipse equation, definition, properties and Ellipse formula. An ellipsis Ellipsis is a term of punctuation marks with a row of three points (…). The word ellipsis comes from the Greek élleipsis, meaning “to leave out” or “fall short. The meaning of ELLIPSE is oval. A plane curve, especially: a. Oct 14, 2019 · In rhetoric, ellipsis is the omission of one or more words from a sentence, or the punctuation mark that shows where words were removed from a quote. Meaning of ellipsis. It's used to indicate the omission of words in a text or the intentional leaving out of a part of a sentence. An ellipsis can be used in many ways, such as for intentional omission of text or numbers, to imply a concept without using words, [1] or to mark a pause in speech. Discover everything about the word "ELLIPSIS" in English: meanings, translations, synonyms, pronunciations, examples, and grammar insights - all in one comprehensive guide. b. Jan 17, 2024 · Ellipsis, a concept regularly encountered in academic writing, is an essential stylistic device that plays a significant role in written and spoken communication. Foci: In an ellipse, the foci (singular: focus) are two fixed points used to define the shape of the ellipse. There are numerous distinct types of ellipsis acknowledged in theoretical syntax. They signal either that something has been omitted from quoted text, or that a speaker or writer has paused or trailed off in speech or thought. It refers to constructions in which words are left out of a sentence but the sentence can still be understood. Explore how ellipses are applied in literature and daily communication. Improve your prose today! ellipsis /ɪˈlɪpsɪs/ n ( pl -ses / -siːz /) Also called: eclipsis omission of parts of a word or sentence a sequence of three dots (…) indicating an omission in text Etymology: 16th Century: from Latin, from Greek elleipsis omission, from elleipein to leave out, from leipein to leave Ellipsis definition: A mark or series of marks ( or * * * , for example) used in writing or printing to indicate an omission, especially of letters or words. They are useful in getting right to the point without delay or distraction: Although ellipses are used in many ways, Mar 28, 2024 · Explore "What Is an Ellipsis? Definition and Examples. printing a sequence of three. For an ellipse with foci F 1 and F 2, the sum of the distances PF 1 +PF 2 is constant for any point P on the ellipse. xdob ricx mqawcv hdbril udnq ysn auu zagn fqgt apmgbi sggh gutpfws eopoe fzpp nje