noun
punctuation
puhngk-choo-AY-shuhn
noun
1
The marks and symbols, such as commas, full stops, and question marks, used in writing to organize and clarify meaning.
"The essay lost marks for poor punctuation."
"Commas and periods are two of the most common punctuation marks."
How to Use Punctuation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe marks used in writing, like commas and full stops, that show structure and meaning.
Common pairings
punctuation mark
correct punctuation
lack of punctuation
Word Forms
punctuations plural
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The essay lost marks for poor _____.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin punctuatio, "a marking with points," from punctuare, "to mark with points."