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The exclamation mark

Posted in Grammar and Vocabulary by wordman on the June 30th, 2009

An exclamation mark which is characterized by the following symbol “!” is used to express surprise at a particular part of a text, whether because it is unusual or surprising. In dialogue, it is used to convey the emotions from the speaker although it can be used as a command as well.  An exclamation mark, just like a question mark is only ever placed at the very end of a sentence. Exclamation marks should be used sparingly in writing.

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Punctuation example – colon use

Posted in Grammar and Vocabulary by wordman on the June 29th, 2009

A colon, which is created using the following symbol “:” is used to introduce a list, introduce a quotation, or to provide a definition or explanation of something.  Here are some common examples of colon usage:

Colon introducing a list

In order to bake a cake you will need the following ingredients:

-sugar

-milk

-eggs.

Colon introducing a quotation

As a wise man once said:

“To err is human, to forgive, divine.”

Colon providing a definition

Arthritis: a painful inflammatory disorder which is characterized by joint stiffness and pain.

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