exclamation point
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A punctuation mark (!): The symbol "!" used in writing to indicate strong feeling, emphasis, or a command. It is placed at the end of an exclamatory sentence or interjection.
Usage
- The exclamation point is used to express strong emotion such as surprise, excitement, anger, or urgency.
- It can end a sentence that is a forceful command or interjection (a word or phrase that expresses sudden emotion).
- In informal writing, such as text messages or social media, it is sometimes used excessively for emphasis (e.g., "Thank you!!!!").
Examples
- Ending an exclamatory sentence:
- What a beautiful day!
- I can't believe we won!
- Ending a strong command:
- Stop!
- Get out!
- Ending an interjection:
- Wow!
- Ouch!
Advanced Usage
- In formal writing: Use exclamation points sparingly. Overuse can make writing seem overly emotional or unprofessional.
- In quotations: If the quoted material is an exclamation, the exclamation point is placed inside the closing quotation marks.
- She shouted, "Fire!"
- With other punctuation: An exclamation point is not followed by a period or comma. However, it can be used before a closing parenthesis if the parenthetical remark is an exclamation.
- The party (what a disaster!) ended early.
Variants and Related Words
- Exclamation mark: (noun) A synonym for exclamation point, more commonly used in British English.
- Exclamatory: (adjective) Having the character of an exclamation.
- an exclamatory sentence
- Interrobang: (noun) A non-standard punctuation mark (‽) combining the functions of a question mark and an exclamation point.
Synonyms
- Bang: (noun, informal) A slang term used in computing and informal contexts.
- Add a bang at the end of the command.
Related Phrases
- Air quotes: While not directly related, this phrase refers to a gesture. The exclamation point is sometimes mimicked with a gesture (a fist pump or a stabbing motion) for humorous effect in speech.
Idioms
- To put an exclamation point on something: (idiom) To emphasize or conclude something in a dramatic or forceful way.
- His game-winning goal put an exclamation point on a fantastic season.
Noun
- a punctuation mark (!) used after an exclamation