Grammar Rule that Deletes Repetitions of Verbs
What is the name given to the grammar rule that deletes repetitions of verbs based on your general study of English grammar either as a second or first language?
The grammar rule that deletes repetitions of verbs is called gapping. It is a type of ellipsis that is the omission of words or phrases that are implied by the context.
Gapping is often used in informal speech and writing but can also be used in formal writing to achieve brevity at the sentence level.
To use gapping, simply omit the verb in the second clause of a compound sentence if it is the same as the verb in the first clause.
For example:
John went to the store and bought milk.
The verb “bought” is omitted in the second clause because it is the same as the verb “went” in the first clause. The complete sentence is still grammatically correct and understandable.
Here are some more examples of gapping:
1. I like to read and write.
2. He went to the gym and worked out.
3. She cooked dinner and washed the dishes.
4. We studied for the exam and got good grades.
5. They played football and basketball.
Gapping can also be used in questions:
Would you like to go to the movies or stay in and watch TV?
The verb “like” is omitted in the second clause because it is the same as the verb “like” in the first clause.
Gapping is a useful grammar rule to know because it can help you to make your writing more concise and effective. However, it is important to use it sparingly, especially in formal writing. Too much gapping can make your writing sound choppy and informal.
Here are some tips for using gapping effectively:
1. Only use gapping when the verb in the second clause is the same as the verb in the first clause.
2. Make sure that the context is clear enough for the reader to understand what the omitted verb is.
3. Avoid using gapping in a row.
4. Use gapping sparingly in formal writing.
If you are unsure whether or not to use gapping, it is always best to err on the side of caution and write out the verb in the second clause.
How Gapping in Grammar Works
Gapping exists in coordinate structures, which are two or more clauses that are joined by a coordinating conjunction such as “and,” “but,” or “or.”
In gapping, the verb in the second clause of the coordinate structure is omitted, along with any other words that are identical to the corresponding words in the first clause.
The meaning of the omitted verb and other words is understood from the first clause.
Summary
You might barely use gapping as a matter of style or change the register of a sentence or phrase. Another use is to assist you in writing more concisely.
However, it is certainly not a golden rule of grammar that you always need to obey, but it is of paramount importance.