Period Quotation Marks: Inside vs Outside Examples

Imagine you're in a conversation and someone says, "He asked, 'Can you pass the salt?'" or "She replied, 'Of course, I'd be happy to.'" In these examples, we're dealing with quotation marks, also known as speech marks, which come in two styles: single (' ') and double (" "). But when should we put the period or comma inside or outside these quotation marks? Let's explore that in this comprehensive guide.

Before we dive in, here's a quick overview. In American English, the general rule is to place the punctuation inside the quotation marks. This is also the case in British English, but there are some exceptions. Now, let's get into the details.

Periods and Question Marks

The placement of periods and question marks depends on whether the punctuation is part of the quoted sentence or not.

If the punctuation is part of the quoted sentence, it goes inside the quotation marks. For example, "Is this the right answer?" she asked. In this case, the question mark is intrinsic to the quote, so it goes inside the quotation marks.

Periods Inside or Outside Quotation Marks

When the period is part of the sentence within the quotes, it's placed inside. For instance, "I'm feeling great today," he said. Here, the period is part of the quoted speech, so it's enclosed.

However, if the period is not part of the quoted sentence but is instead part of the surrounding sentence, it goes outside the quotation marks. For example, I wondered, "What time is the meeting?" Here, the period is not part of the quote but concludes the entire sentence, so it's placed outside the quotation marks.

Question Marks Inside or Outside Quotation Marks

The same logic applies to question marks. If it's part of the quoted sentence, it goes inside the quotation marks. For instance, "What's today's special?" he asked. Here, the question mark is part of the quote, so it's enclosed.

But if the question mark is part of the surrounding sentence, it goes outside the quotation marks. For example, I asked, "What are we having for dinner?" Here, the question mark concludes the entire sentence, not just the quote, so it's placed outside the quotation marks.

Semicolons and Colons

Semicolons and colons are usually placed outside the quotation marks because they're not part of the quoted sentence but rather serve to connect two independent parts of the sentence.

Take, for instance, "He said he would be here;" I'm not worried about that. In this case, the semicolon is part of the surrounding sentence, not the quote, so it's placed outside the quotation marks.

Semicolons Outside Quotation Marks

Semicolons are typically placed outside the quotation marks, joining two related, independent clauses. Here's another example: I said, "I'll be there on Monday;" that's the plan. Here, the semicolon connects two parts of the sentence, both of which can stand alone.

Additionally, semicolons can also link a statement with a quote that clarifies or amplifies it. Consider this: I couldn't believe it; "You're fired," he said. In this instance, the semicolon connects the two parts of the sentence, showing the transition from thought to speech.

Colons Outside Quotation Marks

Colons are also placed outside the quotation marks as they're used to introduce or elaborate on what's inside the quotes. For example, He said this: "I'll be home by eight." Here, the colon introduces the quote, explaining what he said.

In another instance, you might say, "I have just one thing to say:" That's right, you got it. Here, the colon introduces the quotation, setting up the upcoming statement.

Commas and Apostrophes

Commas and apostrophes have a few exceptions to the general rule. Let's delve into them.

The placement of commas and apostrophes largely depends on whether they're part of the quoted sentence or not. If they are, they go inside the quotation marks. If not, they go outside. Sounds simple, right?

Commas and Apostrophes Inside Quotation Marks

When the comma or apostrophe is part of the quoted sentence, it's placed inside the quotation marks. For instance, "We're not going to make it," she said. Here, the apostrophe is part of the quote, so it's enclosed.

Similarly, "Let's eat, grandma!" is a great example. The comma inside the quotation marks separates two independent clauses, which can stand alone.

Commas Outside Quotation Marks

Commas are typically placed outside the quotation marks when they're part of the surrounding sentence, not the quote. For example, I told her, "I'll be there soon," and she replied, "Okay, see you then." Here, the commas are not part of the quoted sentences, so they're placed outside the quotation marks.

Remember, these are guidelines, and there can be exceptions depending on the specific context or regional style. Practice and exposure will help you get the hang of it. Happy quoting!