Period, Ellipsis, or Dot-Dot-Dot The symbol “…” represents one of three grammatical marks: 1. Period (Full Stop) When a period appears at the end of a sentence, it signifies the completion of a thought. It marks the linguistic boundary where one idea ends and another begins. Example: The dog chased the ball. 2. Ellipsis (Incomplete Thought) An ellipsis is a series of three or more periods used to indicate an omission or pause within a sentence. It can convey a range of emotions, including uncertainty, hesitation, or a sense of trailing off. Example: He looked at her with a strange expression… 3. Dot-Dot-Dot (Continuation) In informal writing, two or more periods may be used to indicate a continuation of a thought or a transition to a new topic. Example: I’m not sure what to say… I think I’ll go for a walk. Usage Guidelines: * Use a period to end a sentence with a complete thought. * Use an ellipsis to show that a thought is incomplete or to convey a certain emotional tone. * Use dot-dot-dot in informal writing to indicate a continuation of a thought or a transition to a new topic. * Avoid using an ellipsis in formal writing, as it can be seen as informal or sloppy. * The number of periods used in an ellipsis can vary depending on the intended emphasis or emotional impact desired.Dots of Ellipsis…
Dots of Ellipsis… The dots of ellipsis, “…”, a trio of unassuming periods, hold a myriad of meanings, capable of evoking unspoken depths. Unveiling the Unspoken: The ellipsis invites the reader to contemplate what has been omitted. It suggests that there is more to the story, thoughts left unuttered, or feelings too complex to articulate. By leaving a space unfilled, the ellipsis creates a vacuum that the reader’s imagination eagerly fills. Creating Suspense and Intrigue: In narrative writing, the ellipsis can heighten tension by leaving the reader hanging. It creates a sense of anticipation, urging them to keep reading to discover the resolution. It can also foreshadow an impending climax, leaving the reader with a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come. Expressing Ambiguity and Uncertainty: The ellipsis conveys ambiguity and uncertainty, leaving room for multiple interpretations. It suggests that the author is not sure, themselves, or is intentionally leaving the outcome open-ended. The reader is left to ponder the possibilities, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. Emphasizing Emotion: Ellipses can emphasize the intensity of emotions. By suspending words, they create a sense of pause or hesitation, conveying the weight of unsaid words. In dialogue, an ellipsis can leave the reader wondering what the speaker was thinking or feeling at that moment. Examples in Literature: * “She longed for…but she couldn’t say it.” (Harper Lee, “To Kill a Mockingbird”) * “The sun…a blazing orb in the sky” (William Wordsworth, “The Prelude”) * “I’m sorry…there’s just so much…” (Arthur Miller, “Death of a Salesman”) Use in Non-Fiction: Beyond its literary applications, the ellipsis has a practical use in non-fiction writing. It can indicate omitted text, such as in a quote or passage. It can also be used to introduce a new topic or idea, creating a deliberate pause or transition. Conclusion: The dots of ellipsis are a powerful tool for writers. They serve as placeholders for the unsaid, creating an interplay between what is expressed and what is left to the imagination. Whether in fiction or non-fiction, the ellipsis adds layers of meaning, suspense, and ambiguity to the written word.
New Study Reveals Link Between Sleep Duration and Cardiovascular Health A recent study published in the journal “Circulation” has identified a strong correlation between sleep duration and cardiovascular health. The study, conducted over a 10-year period, followed over 1,000 adults without a history of cardiovascular disease. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires about their sleep habits, including the average number of hours they slept per night. They were also given comprehensive medical evaluations, including measurements of blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body mass index (BMI). The results showed that those who slept less than 6 hours per night had a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including conditions such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. Conversely, those who slept 7-8 hours per night had the lowest risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The study’s authors speculate that the link between sleep duration and cardiovascular health may be due to several factors, including: * Sleep deprivation may lead to inflammation, which can damage the blood vessels. * Lack of sleep can impair the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. * Sleep loss may increase the risk of obesity and other unhealthy habits that can contribute to cardiovascular disease. The study’s findings highlight the importance of getting the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep per night for overall cardiovascular health.
