Punctuation refers to the marks used in writing to clarify meaning and separate sentences, phrases, or words. These marks help structure the text, making it easier for readers to understand the intended meaning.
1. Terminal Punctuation: Marks used to end sentences. Examples: Period, Question Mark, Exclamation Mark.
2. Internal Punctuation: Marks used within sentences to separate ideas or items. Examples: Comma, Semicolon, Colon, Dash.
3. Mark of Direct Speech: Used to enclose direct quotations or speech. Examples: Quotation Marks, Apostrophe.
4. Special Punctuation: Used for specific purposes in writing. Examples: Parentheses, Ellipsis, Hyphen.
1. Period (.): Used to end declarative sentences or statements. Example: She loves reading. The period at the end of the sentence "She loves reading." indicates a full stop, signaling the end of a statement or thought. It is used to mark a declarative sentence, showing that the sentence is complete.
2. Comma (,): Used to separate items in a list or clauses in a sentence. Example: I bought apples, bananas, and oranges.
3. Question Mark (?): Used at the end of a question. Example: How are you today?
4. Exclamation Mark (!): Used to express strong emotions or emphasis. Example: Wow! That was amazing!
5. Colon (:): Used to introduce a list, explanation, or quotation. Example: She bought the following items: apples, bananas, and grapes.
6. Semicolon (;): Used to link independent clauses or separate items in a complex list. Example: I have a meeting tomorrow; I can't go to the party.
7. Apostrophe ('): Used to show possession or in contractions. Example: It's Sarah's book. / I can't go.
8. Quotation Marks (" "): Used to enclose direct speech, quotations, or titles. Example: She said, "I'll be there soon."
9. Hyphen (-): Used to join words in compound adjectives or to break a word at the end of a line. Example: well-known author / break-long words
10. Parentheses (()): Used to add extra information or clarification. Example: He arrived late (around 10 PM).
11. Ellipsis (...): Used to show omission or a pause in speech. Example: She hesitated... then spoke.