Ellipses

Definition

Ellipses are punctuation marks represented by three consecutive dots (...) used to indicate the omission of words, phrases, or sentences in quoted material. This tool allows writers to shorten quotes while maintaining their original meaning, making them particularly useful in journalism for incorporating essential information without losing context.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ellipses can be used at the beginning, middle, or end of a quote to show that text has been omitted.
2. When quoting multiple sentences, ellipses indicate omissions between those sentences without altering the intended message.
3. It is essential to maintain the integrity of the original statement when using ellipses; misusing them can lead to distortion of meaning.
4. In most style guides, a space is placed before and after the ellipsis when it is used within a sentence.
5. Ellipses should not be overused as they can create confusion or suggest that the quoted material has been significantly altered.

Review Questions

• How do ellipses contribute to effective quote incorporation in journalism?
  • Ellipses are crucial in journalism as they allow writers to include relevant portions of quotes while omitting unnecessary details. This technique ensures that quotes remain concise and focused on key points without misrepresenting the original intent. By carefully using ellipses, journalists can provide readers with clear and impactful information while maintaining the voice of the source.
• Discuss the potential ethical implications of misusing ellipses in quoting sources.
  • Misusing ellipses can lead to significant ethical issues, particularly if they distort the original meaning or context of a quote. If a writer omits critical information using ellipses, it may mislead readers and misrepresent the source's views. Maintaining accuracy and transparency when quoting is essential for preserving journalistic integrity and upholding trust with the audience.
• Evaluate how ellipses impact the credibility of a piece when quoting sources. What practices should be adhered to for maintaining that credibility?
  • Ellipses can greatly impact the credibility of a written piece by either enhancing clarity or potentially causing confusion if not used correctly. Writers must ensure that ellipses do not alter the meaning of the quoted material; otherwise, it could lead to a loss of trust from readers. Best practices include using ellipses sparingly, providing enough context for quotes, and ensuring that omitted portions do not change the intent or message of the original statement. Adhering to these practices helps maintain credibility and strengthens the overall quality of journalism.

Related terms

Quotation Marks: Punctuation marks used to enclose direct speech, quotations, or phrases taken from other sources.

Attribution: The process of crediting a source or author when using their ideas, quotes, or data in a piece of writing.

Paraphrasing: The act of rephrasing someone else's ideas or statements in your own words while still conveying the original meaning.