aposiopesis

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And the novel's final line, from inside Valentine's head, is a typical and brilliant Fordian aposiopesis: "She was setting out on …" It could end there.

From The Guardian • Aug. 24, 2012

Who ever composed with greater spirit and elegance because he could define an oxymoron or an aposiopesis?

From Life and Letters of Lord Macaulay Volume 1 by Trevelyan, George Otto, Sir

Raphael, Michael Angelo, Wiertz, Reynolds——” He paused, not in order to produce the effect of a dramatic aposiopesis, but because he could not for the moment remember other names of painters.

From The Joyous Adventures of Aristide Pujol by Ball, Alec

Yes, but—Richard used the device of aposiopesis; Daniel Dabbs took it for a humorous effect and began a roar, which was summarily interdicted.

From Demos by Gissing, George

He filled up his aposiopesis with an uncouth gesture, signifying 'I may as well get back to Australia.'

From Yet Again by Beerbohm, Max, Sir