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Classroom
Today
Learn about
exclamation marks |
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Today you are going to learn about
exclamation marks
an important part of English
grammar. |
 Hey
if you cannot understand something on this page,
then use the Fun Easy English
dictionary
(opens in a new window) |
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Grammar:
Definition of an
exclamation mark. |
- An exclamation mark looks like this:
!
- An exclamation mark indicates the end of a
sentence that is either an actual exclamation, or is
intended to be astonishing in some way
- The exclamation mark or exclamation point is
a punctuation mark usually used after an interjection or
exclamation to indicate strong feelings or high volume
(shouting), and often marks the end of a sentence.
- A sentence ending in an exclamation mark may
be an exclamation (such as "Wow!"), or an imperative ("Stop!"),
or may indicate astonishment: "They were the footprints of a
gigantic duck!"
- Informally, exclamation marks may be
repeated for additional emphasis ("That's great!!!"), but this
practice is generally considered unacceptable in formal prose.
- The exclamation mark is sometimes used in
conjunction with the question mark. This can be in protest or
astonishment ("Out of all places, the squatter-camp?!").
- Several studies have shown that women use
exclamation marks more than men do, and one study suggests that,
in addition to other usage, exclamation points may also function
as markers of friendly interaction, for example, by making "Hi!"
or "Good luck!" seem friendlier than simply "Hi." or "Good
luck." (with periods).
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Exclamation
marks are used to emphasize a precautionary statement.
On warning signs, an exclamation mark is often used to
draw attention to a warning of danger, hazards, and the
unexpected.
These signs are common in hazardous environments or on
potentially dangerous equipment. A common type of this
warning is a yellow triangle with a black exclamation
mark, but a white triangle with a red border is common
on European road warning signs. |
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Examples |
- "Wow!"
- "Stop!" (a command)
- "They were the footprints of a gigantic hound!" (astonishing)
- "That's great!"
- "Hi!"
- "Good luck!"
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Fun Easy English Grammar Lessons |
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 From
YOUR Teacher:
Exclamation marks are used throughout
writing in English. |
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Additional Information |
Study Tips
(Beginner - Listening)
Avoid Ineffective Study Methods. An audio lesson to help
you study English more effectively. The English is
spoken at 75% of normal speed. Great English study tips.
Click here to visit the lesson page with the written script for this
audio program. |
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