Ellipsis in speech – 3

By Cecilia Brabin | November 24, 2016

Ellipsis in speech occurs between people who are confident the other person can understand the message even if some details are left out. In informal conversation we can often leave out the subject ‘Didn’t catch the train’. = ‘I / We didn’t catch the train.’"Saw John. Thinks England will lose." = "I saw John. He…

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Ellipsis in speech – step 2

By David Wood | November 23, 2016

In casual, informal conversation complete sentences are often shortened as long as the meaning is still clear. It is very important not to do this yourself in a formal situation such as at a job interview! When you meet people for the first time (especially if they are older than you) it is usually advisable…

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Ellipsis in speech

By David Wood | November 22, 2016

Choose the phrases you would use in a formal situation:   Go to Grammar Bank Home   1. [Multiple choice] Which is the formal phrase? Answers for Quiz [1]. 1. You alright? 2. How are you, Sir / Madam? (correct) 2. [Multiple choice] Which would you use at a formal event? Answers for Quiz [2].…

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Ellipsis in notes

By Cecilia Brabin | November 21, 2016

Notes use a minimum of words for the message to be clear, and this process is called ellipsis. You can generally omit First person pronouns (I) couldn’t find your keys. auxiliary verbs be and have Richard arriving Thursday. = Richard is arriving on Thursday.Steven and Sarah’s wedding cancelled! = Steven and Sarah’s wedding has been…

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