438 / Glossary
essay question a question, as on a test or application, that requires an orga-
nized, logical, well-developed answer. [See Chapter 24, Essay-Test Responses, for a
thorough discussion and examples.]
essential modifier a word, phrase, or clause essential to the identification of the
word it modifies. Example: The man who ran the stop sign hit the pedestrian.
Compare with nonessential modifier. Note: Do not use commas to set off essential
elements. [See Commas in Chapter 45, Punctuation, for rules and examples about
punctuating essential and nonessential elements.]
evidence something that makes another thing easy to see or perceive; makes it
clear, obvious, plain. In written work, evidence may take the form of illustrations,
examples, analogies, and so on.
example a thing selected to show the nature or character of the rest; a sample. In
written work, an example gives support and detail to a main idea.
exclamation point a mark of punctuation (! ) used to express surprise, a strong
feeling, and other strong emotions.
exclamatory sentence a sentence showing or using excitement or strong emo-
tion. Example: Stop that thief! Compare also with declarative, interrogative, and
imperative sentences. [See Glossary entries for each.]
explanation something that clarifies or interprets. In writing, an explanation may
take the form of a definition, example, specific detail, and so on.
exposition writing that sets forth facts, ideas, and detailed explanations; as
opposed to purely creative writing, such as short stories and poetry.
facts things that are actual. In writing, facts serve as evidence to explain or sup-
port a main idea.
falling action the part of the plot following the climax, when the conflict is
resolved.
feature article a special story or article in a newspaper or magazine; shows
human-interest side rather than straight news. [See also Chapter 25, Feature
Article.]
figure of speech an expression with an unusual or fanciful meaning used to add
vividness to what is said. Figures of speech include hyperbole, metaphor, personifi-
cation, simile, and symbol. [See these entries in the Glossary.]
final draft a complete, carefully revised and proofread copy.
finite verb a verb having limits of person, number, and tense.
five-paragraph theme a paper following a formal organization in which the first
paragraph serves as an introduction and includes the thesis statement; the sec-
ond, third, and fourth paragraphs develop a single topic from the thesis; and the
fifth paragraph serves as a conclusion. [See Writing a Multi-Paragraph Paper in
Chapter 2, Writing, for a complete discussion and an example.]