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The plural of **ellipsis** is **ellipses**.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Ellipsis
An ellipsis (singular) is a series of dots—typically three—used in writing to indicate an intentional omission of a word, sentence, or whole section from a text without altering its original meaning. It is also frequently used to indicate a trailing off of thought or a pause in speech.
The Plural Form: Ellipses
When you are referring to more than one of these marks, the correct term is ellipses. This follows the standard rule for English words derived from Greek that end in -is.
| Singular | Plural | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Ellipsis | Ellipses | Change “-is” to “-es” |
| Analysis | Analyses | Change “-is” to “-es” |
| Crisis | Crises | Change “-is” to “-es” |
Pronunciation Differences
While the spelling only changes by one letter, the pronunciation of the plural form is distinct:
- Ellipsis (Singular): Pronounced /ɪˈlɪpsɪs/ (ends with a soft “iss” sound).
- Ellipses (Plural): Pronounced /ɪˈlɪpsiːz/ (ends with a long “eez” sound, similar to “cheese”).
Usage in Grammar and Rhetoric
In literary and rhetorical contexts, “ellipses” can refer to two different things:
- The Punctuation Marks: Multiple sets of the three-dot symbol.
- The Linguistic Omission: The act of leaving out words from a sentence that are still understood by the reader (e.g., “I went to the mall, and she [went] to the park”).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Because the word “ellipses” looks identical to the plural of “ellipse” (an oval shape), it can occasionally cause confusion. However, they are distinct terms.
Check your work against these common errors:
- Ellipsises → Ellipses
- Ellipsis’s → Ellipses
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it “ellipsis” or “ellipses” for one set of dots?
For one set of three dots (…), use the singular ellipsis. If you have multiple sets of dots throughout a paragraph, you are using ellipses.
How many dots are in an ellipsis?
Standard style guides (like APA, MLA, and Chicago) agree that a single ellipsis consists of three dots. Some styles suggest putting spaces between the dots (. . .), while others prefer them together (…).
Can “ellipses” also mean ovals?
Yes. Homographically, “ellipses” is also the plural of ellipse (a geometric oval). Context usually makes it clear whether you are talking about punctuation or geometry.
Quick Quiz
Which sentence uses the term correctly?
A) I used three ellipsis in my essay.
B) The student’s use of ellipses helped condense the long quote.
Answer: B (Since the student likely used multiple sets or is referring to the general practice of omission).
