The easiest way to make a list into a sentence is
to add a subject and verb at the beginning
. Remember that the structure should stay parallel. Also, remember to use commas between the items in the list, unless it would be confusing, in which case, you need to use semi-colons.
What are listing sentences?
The listing comma is used as a
kind of substitute
for the word and, or sometimes for or. … First, it is used in a list when three or more words, phrases or even complete sentences are joined by the word and or or; we might call this construction an X, Y and Z list: The Three Musketeers were Athos, Porthos and Aramis.
How do you write a list in a sentence?
The easiest way to make a list into a sentence is
to add a subject and verb at the beginning
. Remember that the structure should stay parallel. Also, remember to use commas between the items in the list, unless it would be confusing, in which case, you need to use semi-colons.
What is a list sentence called?
Updated January 13, 2018. In English grammar,
a series
is a list of three or more items (words, phrases, or clauses), usually arranged in parallel form. Also known as a list or catalog. The items in a series are usually separated by commas (or semicolons if the items themselves contain commas). See Serial Commas.
How do you list a sentence example?
- Use a colon to introduce the list items only if a complete sentence precedes the list. …
- Use both opening and closing parentheses on the list item numbers or letters: (a) item, (b) item, etc.
- Use either regular Arabic numbers or lowercase letters within the parentheses, but use them consistently.
What do you put before a list?
If your list is simple, you can also
use a colon
to introduce the list and commas to separate the items. Example: Last night Regina saw: a mouse, a wizard, and a tomato. If your list is complex, use a colon to introduce the list and semicolons to separate the items.
How do you punctuate a list in a sentence?
- a comma or no punctuation for lists that do not contain the main verb.
- a full stop after each sentence for lists that contain at least one item with multiple sentences.
- a semicolon otherwise.
How do you list more than 3 things in a sentence?
An Oxford Comma
is a comma used before the last list item in a list of three or more items. When there are three or more list items, then those following “US convention” should use a comma (often called an Oxford Comma) with the conjunction (usually “and” or “or”).
What is a list used for?
A list is
any information displayed or organized in a logical or linear formation
. Below is an example of a numerical list, often used to show a series of steps that need to be performed to accomplish something.
Where do commas go in a list?
Separate phrases, words, or clauses in lists
When making a list, commas are the most common way to separate one list item from the next. The final two items in the list are usually separated by
“and” or “or”
, which should be preceeded by a comma.
Can you use semicolons in a list?
Semicolons can be used to link items in a list
, such as objects, locations, names and descriptions. Where the list items already contain commas, a semicolon helps avoid confusion between the items; in this way the semicolon acts like a ‘super comma’.
Do you use a colon or semicolon before a list?
It is therefore
correct to use a colon before the list
. … 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.
What is a list in writing?
In composition, a list is
a series of particular images, details, or facts
. Also called a series, a catalog, an inventory, and (in classical rhetoric) enumeratio. Lists are often used in works of fiction and creative nonfiction (including essays) to evoke a sense of place or character.
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.
How do you list things in writing?
If you are listing simple items, as above,
separate each item with a comma
. You should use “and” or “or” just before the last item to indicate the conclusion of the list. “And” is inclusive and means all of the items mentioned apply, whereas “or” indicates that only one of the items is relevant.
Can you start a sentence with a list?
It is possible to start a sentence with a list
. However, this should only be done occasionally.
