What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eclipsis
Example
In Irish, 'ar an' is often shortened to 'ar'n'. [eclipsis: noun]
Example
The word 'an' can be eclipsed by 'na' in certain contexts. [eclipsing: verb]
omission
Example
The author made an omission in the second paragraph that confused readers. [omission: noun]
Example
I omitted the last sentence of the email to make it more concise. [omitted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Omission is a more commonly used term than eclipsis in everyday language, as it is a more general and accessible term that can be used in a wide range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eclipsis and omission?
Both eclipsis and omission can be used in formal and informal contexts, but eclipsis may be more technical and less familiar to non-linguists, making it more appropriate for academic or specialized writing.