Definition

1. Verb:
   • To insert punctuation marks into (text): To add standard marks such as periods, commas, question marks, etc., to written material to clarify meaning and separate structural units.
   • To interrupt or occur at intervals throughout: To break the continuity of something periodically or repeatedly.
   • To emphasize or give special stress to: To single out as important, often by a forceful action or remark.

Usage Examples

• Verb (Insert punctuation):
  • Remember to punctuate your sentences correctly to make your writing clear.
  • The editor's job is to punctuate the manuscript according to the style guide.
• Verb (Interrupt periodically):
  • Long periods of silence were punctuated by sudden bursts of gunfire.
  • His lecture was punctuated with humorous anecdotes.
• Verb (Emphasize):
  • She punctuated her final point by slamming her hand on the table.
  • The report punctuates the need for immediate action on climate change.

Advanced Usage

• "to punctuate something with something": To interrupt or emphasize something by inserting something else at intervals.
  • He punctuated his speech with dramatic pauses.
  • The landscape was punctuated with tall, ancient trees.

Variants and Related Words

• Punctuation (n): The marks used in writing to separate sentences and clarify meaning (e.g., period, comma).
  • Proper punctuation is essential for clear communication.
• Punctuational (adj): Relating to punctuation.
  • The student made several punctuational errors.

Synonyms

• Interrupt: To stop the continuous progress of an activity or process.
• Emphasize: To give special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing.
• Accentuate: To make more noticeable or prominent.

Related Phrasal Verbs/Constructions

(This word does not commonly form phrasal verbs. Its advanced usage is typically shown with the preposition "with," as in "punctuate with.")

Related Idioms

(There are no common idioms directly centered on the word "punctuate." Its usage is primarily literal or descriptive.)

Verb

1. interrupt periodically
   • Her sharp questions punctuated the speaker's drone
2. to stress, single out as important
   • Dr. Jones emphasizes exercise in addition to a change in diet
3. insert punctuation marks into