periodic sentence

[ peer-ee-od-ik, peer- ]

noun

1. a sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense, as in Unable to join the others at the dance because of my sprained ankle, I went to a movie.

periodic sentence

/ ˌpɪərɪˈɒdɪk /

noun

1. rhetoric a sentence in which the completion of the main clause is left to the end, thus creating an effect of suspense

Word History and Origins

Origin of periodic sentence¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

The philosophy of the periodic sentence has been best stated by Herbert Spencer.

From Project Gutenberg

The periodic sentence is generally so massed that the end contains words of distinction, and the sentence forms a climax.

From Project Gutenberg

Theoretically the periodic sentence is better than the loose sentence; for it economizes attention.

From Project Gutenberg

Dangling participles, trailing relatives, and straggling generalities can find no chance to hang on to a periodic sentence.

From Project Gutenberg

A periodic sentence holds the meaning in suspense till the close.

From Project Gutenberg