noun
punctuation
punk-choo-AY-shuhn/ˌpʌŋktʃuˈeɪʃn/
Written marks that separate and organize language.
Clear punctuation helps readers see where each sentence ends.
Etymology
Marking writing with points developed into a system for indicating pauses. The name now covers the marks that separate sentences and clarify their structure.
In context
A colon is a punctuation mark that serves a specific purpose. It is used after a complete independent clause, which is a full sentence, to introduce information that clarifies or elaborates on that clause.
More examples
- Check your punctuation before you submit the essay.
- A question mark is the right punctuation here.
- Changing the punctuation can change a sentence’s meaning.
Forms
punctuation
punctuate verb — Add marks that clarify written language.
Similar words
- marks
- Broader term for written signs, including those unrelated to punctuation.