Made-Up Words

Margie Wakeman WellsThe Quotation Mark 2 Comments

When someone makes up a word that looks like an English word and can be readily
spelled, the rule is that the word should be quoted. There is no need to use [sic] after
such a word. The quotes clue the reader that something is unusual about the word.

…It was “dramastically” reduced in size.
…There was always “insinuendo” about his status.
…I think her behavior was just “redunculous.”

Happy punctuating!

Margie

Comments 2

  1. Would inserting (verbatim) instead of quoting the words be an acceptable option?

    (Does “instead of quoting the words” need to be surrounded by commas, or is that element where it belongs?)

    1. Post
      Author

      There is a difference between quoting and inserting the word “verbatim.” They are not interchangeable.

      No commas are required in your sentence.

      Hope this helps.

      Margie

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