The trick for using a semicolon correctly is simple: there must be standalone sentences on either side of the semicolon punctuation mark. Remember that a semicolon is used to create a relationship. The two sentences should not be completely unrelated or the punctuation mark is being used incorrectly, as is shown in the following example:. To receive informative articles and tailored advice for academics and students, as well as updates about our exciting grant and scholarship opportunities, please subscribe to our blog.
Share this article. When to Use a Semicolon A semicolon ; is a punctuation mark that has two main functions: Semicolons separate items in a complex list. Semicolons join two closely related independent clauses. For example, Taylor hates the Friday commute; platform 24 is always overcrowded.
What is an Independent Clause? She loves going to the beach in hot weather. Using a Semicolon to Avoid a Comma Splice Two independent clauses as in the example above should only be joined with a semicolon to create a complex sentence.
This is an example of a comma splice: Donning his hat, he walked to the door, he would never see Tommy again. You can use semicolons to divide the items of a list if the items are long or contain internal punctuation. In these cases, the semicolon helps readers keep track of the divisions between the items. My plan included taking him to a nice—though not necessarily expensive—dinner; going to the park to look at the stars, which, by the way, are amazing this time of year; and serenading him with my accordion.
Yup, that was one now. When you have a conjunctive adverb linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. Some common conjunctive adverbs include moreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise, and consequently. I needed to go for a walk and get some fresh air; also, I needed to buy milk. These words sometimes show up in other parts of a sentence; therefore, the semicolon rule only applies if it helps the conjunctive adverb join two independent clauses.
See what we did there? This conjunctive adverb rule is similar to the conjunction rule. In both cases, check that the two ideas are independent clauses that could stand on their own as sentences. Emoticons will never replace a solid knowledge of the English language. But they can sure spice it up from time to time. Or on top of your parenthetical smile. The first part is not an independent clause, so no semicolon is required.
This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels. U niversity of W isconsin —Madison. Rules for Using Semicolons A semicolon is most commonly used to link in a single sentence two independent clauses that are closely related in thought. When a semicolon is used to join two or more ideas parts in a sentence, those ideas are then given equal position or rank. Some people write with a word processor; others write with a pen or pencil.
Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases.
Use a semicolon between items in a list or series if any of the items contain commas. Use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction if the clauses are already punctuated with commas or if the clauses are lengthy. Avoid using a comma when a semicolon is needed: Incorrect: The cow is brown, it is also old.
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