The colon can be used to emphasize a phrase or single word at the end of a sentence.
Can a sentence end with a semicolon?
The semicolon (;) can be used to end a sentence , as long as there is a sentence with equal emphasis or a related idea that follows.
Can you end a paragraph with a semicolon?
Use a semicolon between closely related main clauses not joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, nor, or, so, yet). In most cases, we mark the end of a main clause (or sentence) with a period.
How do you use a semicolon in a paragraph?
- Use a semicolon between closely related main clauses not joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, nor, or, so, yet).
- Use a semicolon between main clauses linked by a conjunctive adverb (such as however and therefore) or transitional expression (such as in fact or for example).
What can you not put after a semicolon?
- Incorrect: The cow is brown, it is also old. ...
- Incorrect: I like cows, however, I hate the way they smell. ...
- Incorrect: I like cows: they give us milk, which tastes good, they give us beef, which also tastes good, and they give us leather, which is used for shoes and coats.
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.
Do I use a colon or semicolon?
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.
How do you use colons and semicolons?
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.
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.
Why use a semicolon instead of a period?
Semicolons are used to connect two independent clauses (i.e., full sentences), whether or not a conjunction is used. Although a period could easily be used—as each sentence can stand on its own—a semicolon can be used to indicate a closer connection between the two sentences .
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 the most common usage for a colon?
The colon is used to separate two independent clauses when the second explains or illustrates the first . In such usage, the colon functions in much the same way as the semicolon. As with the semicolon, do not capitalize the first word after the colon unless the word is ordinarily capitalized.
In what situation do you use a semicolon?
The semicolon is used to separate independent clauses
How do you use a semicolon in a list examples?
It is now appropriate to use semicolons as separators to outrank those commas. For example: I have been to Newcastle, Carlisle, and York in the North ; Bristol, Exeter, and Portsmouth in the South; and Cromer, Norwich, and Lincoln in the East.
What does the semicolon mean in writing?
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.
