- Semicolons Connect Related Independent Clauses.
- Delete the Conjunction When You Use a Semicolon.
- Use Semicolons in a Serial List.
- Use Semicolons With Conjunctive Adverbs.
- Use a Semicolon to Give a Wily Wink.
How many uses are there for a semicolon?
It’s useful to think of the semicolon in terms of the pause it creates: a longer pause than a comma, but shorter than a full stop. A semicolon has
two main uses
: to join closely related independent clauses, and as a mega-comma of sorts.
When should a semicolon be used examples?
A semicolon may be used
between independent clauses joined by a connector
, such as and, but, or, nor, etc., when one or more commas appear in the first clause. Example: When I finish here, and I will soon, I’ll be glad to help you; and that is a promise I will keep.
What is the main purpose of a 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.
What are three uses for a semicolon?
- Use a semicolon to separate two independent clauses that are closely related. …
- Unleash the mighty semicolon when using a conjunctive adverb to join two main clauses. …
- Use a pack of semicolons to make a bunch of competing commas more manageable and easy to understand.
What is semicolon example?
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.
Can I use in fact after semicolon?
Linking independent clauses separated by a
transitional
phrase or conjunctive adverb. Jamie really likes cheese; in fact, it may be her favorite food on Earth. The transitional phrase “in fact” has been added to the second independent clause, but the two statements can still be joined by a semicolon.
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.
How do you use 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.
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.
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 is the difference between a colon and 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.
How do you use a colon and semicolon in a list?
Semicolon where a colon should go
Semicolons separate items within a list, while a colon precedes and introduces a list. He took three things on the hike;
his lunch, his binoculars, and his trusty walking stick
. He took three things on the hike: his lunch, his binoculars, and his trusty walking stick.
Which sentence uses a semicolon correctly?
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 is colon in grammar?
Colons are
punctuation marks used to signal when what comes next is directly related to the previous sentence
. They are used after complete sentences. It is especially important to remember that a colon is not used after a sentence fragment.
What does a semicolon tattoo mean?
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. Warning: This article deals with the sensitive topic of suicide.
