What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gapping
Example
John likes pizza, and Mary does too. [gapping: omission of 'likes']
Example
I ordered a coffee, and my friend a tea. [gapping: omission of 'ordered']
ellipsis
Example
She went to the store, and he to the bank. [ellipsis: omission of 'went']
Example
Some like it hot; others, cold. [ellipsis: omission of 'like it']
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ellipsis is more commonly used than gapping in everyday language. Ellipsis is a versatile device that can be used in various contexts and for different purposes, while gapping is a more specific construction that is less common.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gapping and ellipsis?
Both gapping and ellipsis are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
