How to properly use a semicolon
How do you use a semicolon example?
Semicolons Separate Clauses
Here’s an example: I have a big test tomorrow; I can’t go out tonight. The two clauses in that sentence are separated by a semicolon and could be sentences on their own if you put a period between them instead: I have a big test tomorrow.
How do you know if a semicolon is used correctly?
If you want to check whether or not you’re using a semicolon correctly, just read the two clauses on their own and see if they make sense. If they don’t, it’s a miss. In the first example, a semicolon is used to introduce a list; it should be a colon.
What are 3 ways to use a semicolon?
3 Ways to Use a Semicolon
- Use a semicolon to connect related independent clauses. An independent clause is a sentence that communicates a complete thought and makes sense on its own. …
- Use a semicolon with a conjunctive adverb or transitional phrase. …
- Use semicolons to separate items in a list.
Can I use a semicolon to give examples?
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.
Did I use a colon correctly?
The hard and fast rule is that a colon must ALWAYS follow a complete sentence. Do not use a colon after a sentence fragment, ever. A colon is used after a full sentence or independent clause to introduce something that illustrates, clarifies, or amplifies what was said in the sentence that preceded the colon.
When should you use a semicolon instead of a comma?
The semicolon is used when connecting two sentences or independent clauses. Unlike the comma, you do not use coordinating conjunctions, e.g., and, or, but, etc. A semicolon can also be used when connecting two independent clauses with conjunctive adverbs, e.g., however, therefore, thus, otherwise, etc.
How do you punctuate for example?
Use a comma before and after for example (or for instance) in the middle of a sentence. I would recommend low-sugar fruits, for example, strawberries or avocados. I would recommend low-sugar fruits for example strawberries or avocados. Replace the first comma by a semicolon to introduce a complete sentence.
Do you use a semicolon before a list?
Semicolons separate items within a list, while a colon precedes and introduces a list.
What does a semicolon look like?
The semicolon looks like a comma with a period above it, and this can be a good way to remember what it does. A semicolon creates more separation between thoughts than a comma does but less than a period does.
What words do you use a semicolon after?
2. Use a semicolon between independent clauses linked with a transitional expression.
| accordingly | finally | likewise |
|---|---|---|
| besides | however | nevertheless |
| certainly | incidentally | next |
| consequently | indeed | nonetheless |
| conversely | instead | otherwise |
How do you separate two sentences?
There are several ways to connect independent clauses.
- Use a period. The easiest way to fix a run-on is to split the sentence into smaller sentences using a period. …
- Use a semicolon. …
- Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction. …
- Use a subordinating conjunction.
How do you introduce a list with a colon?
Use a colon before a series or list only if the words that introduce the list make up a complete sentence: To make a cake you need a few basic ingredients: butter, sugar, eggs, milk, flour, leavener, and salt.
Should you use a capital letter after a colon?
A colon is nearly always preceded by a complete sentence; what follows the colon may or may not be a complete sentence, and it may be a mere list or even a single word. A colon is not normally followed by a capital letter in British usage, though American usage often prefers to use a capital.
Can you connect three sentences with a semicolon?
Yes, semicolons can be used to connect three, or more, related independent clauses.
Is the Oxford comma?
The Oxford comma is the comma placed before the conjunction at the end of a list of things. For example, in “the flag was red, white, and blue”, the Oxford comma would be the one appearing before “and”. Proponents of the Oxford comma say it’s necessary for removing ambiguity in sentences.
How do you know if a sentence is correct?
In order for a sentence to be grammatically correct, the subject and verb must both be singular or plural. In other words, the subject and verb must agree with one another in their tense. If the subject is in plural form, the verb should also be in plur al form (and vice versa).
Can there be two semicolons in a sentence?
Generally, no. It serves the same structural function as a period, but indicates a relationship between the two independent clauses. That kind of falls to pieces if you start stringing them together. If if you’ve got two semicolons, just make one a period.
Can you use too many semicolons?
Semicolons and colons indicate sophisticated writing. Remember that using too many semicolons and colons can make a paper look cluttered, particularly a shorter paper. Use them sparingly in order to add variety to the methods utilized to connect sentences.
Can you use two semi colons in a row?
1 Answer. In general, for use in a list – yes.
What are semicolon tattoos for?
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.
Are semi colons bad?
Here’s the rule: Whenever you have two “closely related” clauses, you can join them with a semicolon instead of separating them with a period. Think about what might define “closely related” and you’ll start to see why, in this job, semicolons are bad news.
How often should I use a semicolon?
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.