Exclamatory Sentences
We have already learned that based on the functions they perform, there are four types of sentences in the English language, and exclamatory sentences are one among them. In this post, we shall delve into exclamatory sentences in much more detail.
What is an Exclamatory Sentence?
An exclamatory sentence is a sentence that conveys strong emotions such as sorrow, astonishment, delight, despair, fear, scorn, disgust, excitement, anger, surprise, or happiness. These sentences are used to express emotions in both spoken and written communication. While speaking, we can convey these emotions through suitable intonations. However, in writing, this is not possible. Therefore, we use the punctuation mark, the exclamation mark (!), to convey these emotions effectively.
An exclamatory sentence starts with a capital letter and ends with an exclamation mark.
Examples:
- What a beautiful girl she is!
- What an intelligent idea it is!
- How lovely the flowers are!
- Oh, it is John!
- Why don’t you go yourself and see!
Differences Between Interjections and Exclamatory Sentences
An interjection is one of the parts of speech that expresses strong emotions of the speaker. In this respect, it is similar to an exclamatory sentence. Most interjections are followed by an exclamation mark. These words or phrases can stand alone or be placed before or after a sentence but do not follow any grammar rules.
Examples of Interjections:
- Alas!
- Hello!
- Oh dear!
- Congrats!
- Bless you!
- Good grief!
- Hurrah!
- Ouch!
- Well!
Interjections do not require a subject or verb to express a feeling and can stand alone. However, with the help of interjections, we can create exclamatory sentences. Exclamatory sentences are, in fact, declarative sentences expressing strong emotion but must always follow grammar rules.
Constructing Exclamatory Sentences
There are two ways to define exclamatory sentences:
- Based on their function.
- Based on their form.
Exclamatory Sentences Based on Their Function
These sentences express strong emotions directly and usually contain verbs.
Examples:
- Don’t you dare to shout at me!
- I simply adore roses!
- What do you think of yourself!
Exclamatory Sentences Containing “So”:
- That pudding was so tasty!
- That boy is so arrogant!
- His words are so nasty!
Exclamatory Sentences Containing “Such”:
- He was such a notorious criminal!
- Your mother is such a cook!
- This is such a delicious cookie!
Exclamations Using Phrases or Short Sentences:
- Look out!
- Wonderful!
Exclamatory Sentences Based on Their Form
In this case, the sentences must begin with “what” or “how.”
When “what” is used, there can be a noun phrase with or without an article after “what.” The noun phrase generally has an adjective.
Examples:
- What beautiful handwriting!
- What an elegant lady!
- What a beautiful girl!
- What foolish things we did during college days!
When we start with “how,” there can be an adjective or adverb. “How” can also modify a verb.
Examples:
- How sour this mango is! (Adjective)
- How sweet his songs are! (Adjective)
- How beautifully he writes! (Adverb)
- How elegantly she dresses! (Adverb)
- How we enjoyed the college days! (How modifies the verb “enjoyed”)
Exclamations Using a Phrase with “How” or “What”:
- How lovely!
- What a beauty!
- What shining glasses!
Note: If the noun in the sentence is plural, we should use only “what,” not “how.” “What” can be used in either case.
Exclamatory Sentences Using Interjections
We can make exclamatory sentences by inserting interjections. However, only a comma should be used with them, and the exclamation mark should come at the end.
Examples:
- Fantastic, let’s go!
- Ouch, you are hurting me!
- Hurrah, we have won!
Exclamatory Sentences with Negative Question Form
These sentences are structured as negative questions but express strong emotions.
Examples:
- Aren’t you excited! (How excited you are!)
- Isn’t he wonderful! (How wonderful he is!)
- Isn’t she smart! (How smart she is!)
Some Special Examples of Exclamatory Sentences
Exclamatory sentences can also be formed to suit specific emotions or occasions. Here are some special examples:
- I simply worship you! (Shows admiration)
- I won’t allow you! (Anger)
- What is going on here! (Confusion)
We can make exclamatory sentences like the above to suit the occasion. While speaking, our intonation will help us to make the meaning clear, but when writing, we must put the exclamation mark at the end.
The Role of Exclamatory Sentences in Writing
Although in everyday speech we use exclamatory sentences profusely, in writing we must use them judiciously. They are powerful tools for emphasizing a point or conveying strong emotions but should not be overused. Overusing exclamatory sentences can make the writing appear overly dramatic or unprofessional.
When to Use Exclamatory Sentences
- Emphasizing a Point: Use exclamatory sentences when you need to emphasize a critical point or highlight strong emotions.
- Quoting Speech: When quoting someone’s speech or dialogue that includes exclamations, it is appropriate to use exclamatory sentences.
- Creative Writing: In creative writing, such as fiction, poetry, or personal narratives, exclamatory sentences can add emotional depth and character to the writing.
Examples:
- In a narrative: “What a terrible storm this is!” she exclaimed.
- In dialogue: “I can’t believe it! This is amazing!” he shouted.
When to Avoid Exclamatory Sentences
- Formal Writing: In formal writing, such as academic essays, research papers, or reports, it is best to avoid exclamatory sentences. Instead, use declarative sentences to maintain a professional tone.
- Business Communication: In business communication, such as emails, reports, or presentations, exclamatory sentences should be used sparingly to maintain a formal and objective tone.
Final Words
Exclamatory sentences are an essential part of the English language, allowing us to express strong emotions and emphasize important points. While they are powerful tools, they should be used thoughtfully and appropriately in writing. By understanding how to construct and use exclamatory sentences effectively, we can enhance our communication skills and convey our emotions more clearly.
When writing an essay or a report, you should not use exclamatory sentences at all unless you have to quote somebody else’s sentences to make your point clear.
