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.
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.
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.
Where should you use a semi colon?
Use a semicolon
to replace a period between related sentences when the second sentence starts
with either a conjunctive adverb or a transitional expression, such as for example, for instance, that is, besides, accordingly, furthermore, otherwise, however, thus, therefore.
How do you use a colon?
A colon is
used to give emphasis, present dialogue, introduce lists or text, and clarify composition titles
. Emphasis—Capitalize the first word after the colon only if it is a proper noun or the start of a complete sentence. (She had one love: Western Michigan University.)
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. The list offers further explanation.
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 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.
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.
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.
Why does a semicolon represent mental health?
Created to symbolize affirmation and solidarity against suicide, depression, addiction, and other mental health issues, the semicolon inspires strength in the midst of suffering. … “The semicolon is also
a reminder to accept and support people battling mental illness
.”
How do you use a colon in a list examples?
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
. You need to grab these three things for the laundry: laundry detergent, fabric softener and dryer sheets.
Why use a colon instead of a comma?
Use a colon to set off a second independent clause that modifies the first. … Use colons to introduce quotations after an independent clause. Use
a comma when introducing quotations after a dependent clause
.
How do you list things after a colon?
When a colon introduces a list of things,
do not capitalize the first word after the colon unless it is
a proper noun. When a colon introduces a phrase or an incomplete sentence that is meant to add information to the sentence before it, do not capitalize the first word after the colon unless it is a proper noun.
What are colon sentences?
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.
How do you use a colon in a sentence?
between a grammatically complete introductory clause
(one that could stand as a sentence) and a final phrase or clause that illustrates, extends, or amplifies the preceding thought. If the clause following the colon is a complete sentence, it begins with a capital letter.
