Consider Relying Less on the Ellipsis in Professional Writing—Seriously.

Let’s talk about the punctuation mark that’s quietly working against you. Not the exclamation point—those have their own issues. I’m talking about the ellipsis. Those three dots that make you sound unsure, unfinished, or like you’re trailing off mid-thought.

In professional writing, ellipses don’t add mystery—they dilute your authority. Leave the drama to your design work, not your punctuation.

If you got my newsletter you already read one of my top reasons, BUT I have three more reasons why the ellipsis affects your professional communication.

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It Comes Off Like You’re Being Smug. (Don’t Do That)

If reading an email where the sentence ends with “...you know what I mean.” No, we don’t. But you’re assuming we do, and that’s just rude. It’s like you’re talking down to your reader, like they should automatically get your unspoken brilliance. And guess what? It makes you sound a teensy bit condescending.

In business, the goal is clarity. Not arrogance. So next time you feel the urge to trail off, just don’t. Say what you mean. It’s more powerful. It’s more professional. It's strength.

The Ellipsis Makes You Look Like You Don’t Know What You’re Talking About

When you leave a sentence unfinished, it gives off the vibe that you didn’t take the time to complete your thought or don’t have the answers. That’s dangerous. If you’re writing to a client, potential partner, or even a colleague, your words should convey that you know exactly what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. Ellipses? They make you look like you need to phone a friend.

Don’t let a punctuation mark make you look uncertain. Be confident in your words. Own them.

Stop Letting Ambiguity Weasel Its Way In

Ambiguity is the enemy of professionalism. It’s the reason things get misunderstood, deadlines get missed, and projects go off the rails. If you’re writing to a client or colleague and leave a sentence dangling, guess what? They’ll fill in the blanks with whatever they think you meant—and that’s a dangerous game to play.

Instead of trailing off into oblivion, say exactly what you mean. No fluff. No guesswork. Just a clear, concise message. Finish it, for the love of good business!

Can You Still Use the Ellipsis for Effect?

Short answer: Yes.

Long answer: ONLY if you're making a joke, being a little playful, or crafting a clever caption. In those moments, it can add just the right amount of charm or irony.

But let’s be clear: that’s the exception, not the rule. In professional writing, it often comes off as vague or lazy. So save the ellipsis for your witty side—not your business proposals.

Now let's go communicate like the badass professional you are. Because in the world of business, clarity is powerful.

 Cheryl Kees Clendenon is a business strategist who works with other small businesses and interior designers to create legacy businesses built for growth. She also owns a 24 year full-service design firm and retail showroom, In Detail Interiors, based in Pensacola, Fla. [email protected]