In informal, personal writing like diaries and text messages, English frequently drops the subject, usually I, and sometimes the auxiliary verb at the start of a sentence, as in went to the store, bought milk. This ellipsis is purely stylistic and informal; formal writing must always state the subject explicitly.
Grammar Rule
In informal, personal writing like diaries and text messages, English frequently drops the subject (usually I) and sometimes the auxiliary verb at the start of a sentence. This ellipsis is purely stylistic and informal; formal writing must always state the subject explicitly. The omitted element is always recoverable from context.
Ellipsis of Subjects and Auxiliaries in Informal/Diary Style: Rules and Examples
| Full form | Diary/informal form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| I went to the store. I bought milk. | drop repeated subject | Went to the store. Bought milk. |
| Have you seen the news? | drop subject and auxiliary | Seen the news? |
Remember: This ellipsis is purely informal and stylistic (diaries, notes, texts) — formal writing always states the subject explicitly.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below using ellipsis in informal diary style correctly. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Ellipsis in Informal Diary Style Exercises (CEFR C2)
No necesitas registrarte para empezar. Al finalizar verás tu calificación de inmediato, y si quieres podrás agregar tu nombre para personalizar y descargar tu resultado.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is typically dropped in diary-style writing?
The subject, usually I, and sometimes the auxiliary verb, as in went to the store, bought milk.
Is this ellipsis appropriate in formal writing?
No, formal writing must always state the subject explicitly.
Can the omitted element always be recovered?
Yes, it is always recoverable from context.
What does seen the news mean in full form?
Have you seen the news, with both subject and auxiliary dropped.