Aposiopesis
This is the current revision of Aposiopesis as edited by DanAP (talk | contribs) at 11:22, August 28, 2013. This URL is a permanent link to this version of this page.
Aposiopesis is a rhetorical device which involves a breaking-off of speech, frequently because of rising emotion. The speaker leaves the conclusion of the statement to the imagination of the audience. Aposiopesis is typically denoted with an ellipsis or a dash.
Examples of Aposiopesis
"If you weren't family...!"
"Why, I oughtta...!"
"One of these days...!"
"Or else...!"