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.
When should a semicolon be used examples?
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.
What are some examples of semicolons?
Examples of Semicolons: Joan likes eggs; Jennifer does not.
The cat slept through the storm
; the dog cowered under the bed. Semicolons are also used in a sentence when something stronger than a comma is needed.
What does a semicolon mean example?
A semicolon is
used to join together two sentences that are related
, telling us that they are directly related. So we can join the girl running and the dog yapping right on her heels with a semicolon. You have to use two independent clauses, or complete thoughts. Your second thought can’t be dependent on the first.
What is a semicolon sentence called?
French. In French, a semicolon (point-virgule, literally “dot-comma”) is
a separation between two full sentences
, used where either a colon or a comma would not be appropriate.
How do you use semicolons in a list?
Use a semicolon between items in a list or series if any of the
items contain commas
. There are basically two ways to write: with a pen or pencil, which is inexpensive and easily accessible; or by computer and printer, which is more expensive but quick and neat.
Where do you put semicolons?
Use a semicolon
to join two related independent clauses in place of a comma and a coordinating conjunction
(and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet). Make sure when you use the semicolon that the connection between the two independent clauses is clear without the coordinating conjunction.
When to use a colon or a semicolon?
Colons introduce or define something. The primary use of semicolons is
to join two main clauses
. The difference between semicolons and colons is that colons can combine two independent clauses, but their primary use is to join independent clauses with a list or a noun.
What are the three semicolon rules?
- Use a semicolon to connect (put together) two related, or similar, sentences. …
- Use a semicolon to join two related, or similar, sentences when using a conjunctive adverb. …
- Use a semicolon to connect items in a list if there are already commas in the sentence.
What is a colon example?
A colon can be used to introduce a list. … For example, “Here’s a list of groceries I need:
a loaf of bread, a quart of milk, and a stick of butter
.” The words preceding the colon stand as a complete, grammatically correct sentence.
What are () called in English?
They can also be used in mathematical expressions. For example, 2{1+[23-3]}=x.
Parentheses
( () ) are curved notations used to contain further thoughts or qualifying remarks. However, parentheses can be replaced by commas without changing the meaning in most cases.
What does a semicolon mean on your wrist?
A semicolon tattoo is a tattoo of the semicolon punctuation mark (;) used as
a message of affirmation and solidarity against suicide, depression, addiction, and other mental health issues
.
How do you use a colon and semicolon?
Colons and semicolons are two types of punctuation. Colons (:) are used in
sentences to show that something
is following, like a quotation, example, or list. Semicolons (;) are used to join two independent clauses, or two complete thoughts that could stand alone as complete sentences.
What is the function of semicolon?
A semicolon has two general uses:
to clarify a series and to indicate two closely related sentences
. Series—If one or more elements in a series contain a comma, use semicolons to separate them. Include a semicolon before the final conjunction.
How do you use a colon and semicolon in a sentence?
Semicolons should introduce evidence or a reason for the preceding statement
; for example, this sentence appropriately uses a semicolon. A colon, on the other hand, should be used for a stronger, more direct relationship. It should provide emphasis, an example, or an explanation.
Is a colon used for a list?
Something is clearly missing. This means that no colon is needed and it would be incorrect to use one before the list. So if you have a list, remember
you only use a colon before it if the list follows a clause that could be used on its own
.
