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.
Do you use a semicolon after a name?
Because we have used commas to separate each speaker’s name from that person’s title, the semicolon is necessary for clarity—to separate one unit of information from another .
Can you use a semicolon before a name?
Use a semicolon before such words and terms as namely, however, therefore, that is, i.e., for example, e.g., for instance, etc., when they introduce a complete sentence. It is also preferable to use a comma after these words and terms. Example: Bring any two items; however, sleeping bags and tents are in short supply.
Can you use a colon in a title?
1 of the eighth edition of the MLA Handbook says, “ Use a colon and a space to separate a title from a subtitle , unless the title ends in a question mark or an exclamation point. Include other punctuation only if it is part of the title or subtitle.”
When should a semicolon not be used?
As we have mentioned, you cannot use a semicolon to connect two unrelated independent clauses , although these can appear together as separate sentences. Incorrect: I hurt my knee; my dog needs someone to walk him. Correct: I hurt my knee. My dog needs someone to walk him.
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.
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.
Can I use a colon and semicolon in the same sentence?
Colons and semicolons can be used in the same sentence , but they are each used for different purposes. ... In this example, the colon is used to introduce the cities. Semicolons are used to separate each city and state from the next city and state in the list.
What do you call a title with a colon?
This kind of title is called a combination title , usually used in autobiographies and non-fiction books. Sometimes used in fiction books, when the book is written in or its point is to convey the style of academic writing, or that of a guide.
Do you put a comma between name and title?
THE RULE: A comma separates initials, degrees, or titles from a name and from the rest of the sentence . For example, a pair of commas is used in the following sentences because the titles are parenthetical: Robert Yeager, Professor of English, is chair of the Department of English and Foreign Languages.
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.
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.
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.
What do semicolons stand for?
Bamum semicolon. The semicolon or semi-colon ; is a symbol commonly used as orthographic punctuation. In the English language, a semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.
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.
How do you use a colon in a sentence with a list?
Use a colon to introduce an item or list , if the list comes after a complete sentence or independent clause. For example: There are three things every dog needs: food, water and healthcare.
