Using Exclamations

Techniques > Use of language > Syntax > Using Exclamations

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Method

Use exclamations to express emotional reactions and hence to evoke emotions in others. Exclamations also grab attention.

When you deliberately use exclamations, ensure you align body language. To make this work properly, you should be actually feeling the emotion you are demonstrating.

Example

Oh no! You can't go looking like that!!

What on earth will they say!

That's terrible!

Discussion

Exclamations are usually almost involuntary remarks that have no particular grammatical form, but which act as sentences.

The reactive nature of exclamations means that they are usually accepted as honest expressions of feeling. The reverse side of this is that if people believe that you are faking exclamations, they are more likely to form a betrayal response.

Exclamations have a particular effect in gaining attention. When you exclaim something, other people will look up.

Over-use of exclamations will dull their value as people classify you as over-emotional.