Phrases, Clauses, and Sentences
Periods, Question Marks, Exclamation Points
In formal writing, be careful. Overuse of exclamation points not only dulls their effect, but also characterizes an immature style.
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The film's last scene poignantly showed that his battle had been for nothing, that he had lost her and his dream forever.
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not The film's last scene was so poignant! You knew he'd lost her forever. His dream was dead!
Also, avoid using an exclamation point in parentheses to indicate sarcasm or irony; instead, rely on good writing to create the desired effect.
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Mother believed Mary's problem could be solved with a new dress, and she refused to discuss the issue further.
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not Mother believed Mary's problem could be solved with a new dress (!), and she refused to discuss the issue further.
