Definition

1. Noun:
   • A punctuation mark (.): A small dot used in writing to mark the end of a declarative sentence or statement, indicating a complete thought. It is also used after many abbreviations.
   • The act of stopping completely: In a broader, non-punctuation sense, it can signify a definitive end or cessation of something.

Usage and Examples

• As a punctuation mark:
  • Please remember to put a full stop at the end of every sentence.
  • Common abbreviations like "Dr." and "etc." require a full stop.
• To indicate a definitive end:
  • After the scandal, his political career came to a full stop.
  • We need to bring this project to a full stop and reassess our goals.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• In British English: The term "full stop" is the standard term for the punctuation mark (.), whereas "period" is more common in American English.
• For emphasis in speech: In informal British English, "full stop" (or often just "stop") can be used at the end of a spoken statement for emphasis, to show that there is nothing more to be said on the matter.
  • I will not agree to these terms, full stop. (Meaning: I will not agree, and that is final.)

Variants and Related Words

• Period (noun): The American English equivalent for the punctuation mark.
• Dot (noun): A more general term for a small round mark, often used in computing (e.g., a dot in a web address) or informally for a full stop.
• Point (noun): Used in some contexts, such as in decimal numbers (e.g., "three point one four") or in saying website addresses aloud.

Synonyms

• Period (chiefly US): The punctuation mark.
• Stop (chiefly UK, informal): A shorter form of "full stop."

Related Phrases and Idioms

• Come to a full stop: To cease moving or progressing completely.
  • The negotiations came to a full stop after the new demands were made.
• Put a full stop to something: To cause something to end definitively.
  • The new evidence put a full stop to the rumours.

Noun

1. a punctuation mark (.) placed at the end of a declarative sentence to indicate a full stop or after abbreviations
   • in England they call a period a stop