an exclamation

Meanings

1. 1phrasecountable

   A short spoken or written expression that shows strong feeling, such as surprise, anger, or joy.

   Grammar: The phrase has two parts: the article 'an' and the noun 'exclamation'. You can say 'a loud exclamation' or 'shouts and exclamations'.

   Patterns

   • an exclamation of surprise
   • make an exclamation
   • with an exclamation

   She gave an exclamation of surprise when she opened the gift.

   He made an exclamation of pain as he stubbed his toe.

   The crowd let out an exclamation of joy when the team scored.

2. 2phrasecountable

   A word or phrase that is said suddenly and loudly, often with emotion.

   Grammar: In grammar, an exclamation can be a single word like 'Wow!' or 'Ouch!' that stands alone.

   Patterns

   • an exclamation like 'Wow!'
   • use an exclamation
   • an exclamation of anger

   'Oh no!' is an exclamation of dismay.

   The teacher told the class not to use exclamations in formal writing.

   His speech was full of exclamations and hand gestures.

Word forms

Common combinations

an exclamation of surprise

She let out an exclamation of surprise.

an exclamation mark

In English, an exclamation mark (!) shows strong feeling.

make an exclamation

He made an exclamation of disgust.

Synonyms and how they differ

cry

A cry is a louder, more emotional sound, often of pain or fear; an exclamation can be quieter and more like a word.

shout

A shout is a very loud call; an exclamation is usually shorter and shows feeling rather than calling someone.

Word family

exclaim verb

To say something suddenly and loudly because of strong feeling.

exclamatory adjective

Describing a sentence or word that expresses strong feeling.

Commonly confused: an exclamation or exclamation mark?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “an exclamation”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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