10 Examples of Sentences with a Full Stop
What Is a Full Stop in English Grammar?
A full stop, also called a period in American English, signals the end of a sentence. It is one of the earliest grammar topics you learn in school. The full stop helps your readers know when you have finished making a statement or giving a command.
Full Stop: Definition, Symbol, and Usage
In English, the full stop is written as a small dot (.). In British English, this is called a "full stop," while in American English, it is known as a "period." Both terms refer to the same punctuation mark. It appears at the end of a sentence that is not a question or an exclamation.
- Use a full stop to end a statement or command.
- Do not use a full stop after a question mark or exclamation mark.
- Always start a new sentence with a capital letter after a full stop.
- In abbreviations (e.g., Dr., U.K.), the full stop is part of the short form.
- One space after a full stop is standard in modern writing.
Full Stop Rules and Examples
- A sentence always ends with a full stop, question mark, or exclamation mark. Use a full stop when your sentence is a statement or a polite request.
- Do not use a full stop for direct questions or exclamations.
- Place a full stop directly after the last word, then begin the next sentence with a capital letter.
- When writing time or abbreviations, use a full stop as per style. For example: "5.30 p.m." or "Mrs.".
Common Confusions: Full Stop vs. Other Punctuation
| Punctuation | Symbol | Main Use |
|---|---|---|
| Full Stop (Period) | . | Ends a statement or command |
| Question Mark | ? | Ends a direct question |
| Exclamation Mark | ! | Ends a sentence with strong feeling |
| Comma | , | Separates items in a list or clauses |
10 Examples of Full Stop Sentences
- The sun is shining.
- Close the door.
- Children are playing outside.
- I have finished my homework.
- My name is Anita.
- Please switch off the light.
- It is raining today.
- He went to the market.
- This is my favorite book.
- The test begins at nine.
Full Stop in Digital Use and Slang
The full stop also appears in email and web addresses, such as in "www.vedantu.com." In texting or social media slang, someone may type "Full stop" or "Period" to emphasize that there’s nothing more to discuss.
Practice: Add Full Stops and Capitals
- she likes to draw
- bring your notebook
- the bus stops here
- we will meet at six
- my mother is a nurse
Rewrite the above sentences with correct full stop placement and capital letters. This practical exercise helps reinforce your learning.
Common Mistakes with the Full Stop
- Forgetting to use a full stop at the end of a sentence.
- Using a full stop after a question mark or exclamation mark.
- Starting the next sentence with a small letter after a full stop.
- Replacing a full stop with a comma (causing a run-on sentence).
When to Use a Full Stop: Quick Summary
- After statements or commands
- At the end of indirect questions
- After abbreviations (as per style guide)
- In email, website, or file names
- Not after direct questions or exclamations
At Vedantu, we make grammar topics like the full stop simple, practical, and exam-focused. Understanding the proper use of the full stop improves your writing, helps you score higher in exams, and builds confidence in English for daily life.
A full stop is essential for sentence clarity. It marks the end of a statement or polite command and prevents run-on sentences. Practice often to master its use in school, exams, and communication. For more on punctuation, visit Introduction to Punctuation or try creating your own simple sentences with full stops.
In summary, the full stop is a small dot that brings order to your sentences. It ends one thought and makes space for the next, helping your readers and listeners understand you better.
FAQs on What Is a Full Stop in Punctuation?
1. What is a full stop (or period)?
A full stop (.), also known as a period in American English, is a punctuation mark used to signal the end of a declarative sentence. It indicates a complete thought and is essential for clear communication in writing.
2. When should I use a full stop?
Use a full stop after a declarative sentence (a statement), an imperative sentence (a command), or an indirect question. Do not use a full stop after a question mark or an exclamation point.
3. What's the difference between a full stop, a comma, and a semicolon?
A full stop ends a sentence. A comma separates items in a list, clauses in a sentence, or introduces a phrase. A semicolon links closely related independent clauses.
4. How many spaces should I put after a full stop?
Modern style guides recommend using only one space after a full stop. Avoid using two spaces, a practice common in the typewriter era.
5. Is a full stop used after abbreviations?
Yes, but modern usage is inconsistent. Traditional style uses a full stop after abbreviations (e.g., Dr., U.S.A.). However, many abbreviations now omit the full stop (e.g., USA, Dr).
6. What are some common mistakes people make with full stops?
Common mistakes include: using a comma instead of a full stop; creating run-on sentences (sentences without enough full stops); forgetting to capitalize the first letter of the sentence following a full stop.
7. What does 'full stop' mean in informal settings or slang?
In informal communication, 'full stop' can emphasize finality, meaning something like 'that's it!' or 'end of discussion'.
8. How do I improve my full stop usage?
Practice identifying complete sentences. Read your writing aloud to detect awkward pauses or incomplete thoughts. Use a checklist to review your punctuation.
9. Are there any exceptions to the rules of full stop usage?
While generally used to end sentences, full stops are sometimes omitted in certain very informal writing styles, such as some forms of online chat or texting. However, formal writing should always follow the standard rules.
10. What is the difference between a full stop and an ellipsis (...)?
A full stop shows the complete end of a sentence. An ellipsis indicates an omission of words or a trailing off of thought.
11. How is proper full stop usage assessed in exams?
Examiners assess correct sentence structure and punctuation. Incorrect full stop usage can demonstrate a lack of understanding of grammatical conventions and clarity.
12. Give 5 examples of sentences using a full stop correctly.
Here are five examples: The sun is shining. The birds are singing. The cat sat on the mat. It is a beautiful day. Please close the door.
