Semicolons
In addition to the colon, there is also the semicolon or ";". Knowing when to use semicolons can be difficult; some writers use them frequently, while others never do. However, writers are noticing that the semicolon is being used less and less. Still, you should understand when it is appropriate to use a semicolon just in case you need to use it in your writing.Semicolons have three purposes:
- Separate two independent clauses that are joined without a conjunction.
- Before and a comma after an adverbial conjunction that acts as a bridge between two independent clauses.
- Separate major and minor separations, using semicolons for major breaks and commas for minor breaks.
1) Separating Two Independent Clauses
Use a semicolon to separate two independent clauses that are joined without a conjunction. Examples:
Al went to the store; he forgot to buy bread.
Nina chose to stay in the car; rodeos really didn't interest her.
The paper received an "A"; the teacher like her argument.
Al went to the store; he forgot to buy bread.
Nina chose to stay in the car; rodeos really didn't interest her.
The paper received an "A"; the teacher like her argument.
2) Before an Adverbial Conjunction
Place a semicolon before and a comma after an adverbial conjunction that acts as a bridge between two independent clauses. Examples:
Bob will determine the fees; however, he is open to suggestions.
Most people don't use grammar that well; however, I find it refreshing when people do.
I said I would go to the movie; however, if I start to feel sick, I want to leave.
Bob will determine the fees; however, he is open to suggestions.
Most people don't use grammar that well; however, I find it refreshing when people do.
I said I would go to the movie; however, if I start to feel sick, I want to leave.
3) Making Major and Minor Separations
When a clause needs major and minor separations, use semicolons for major breaks and commas for minor breaks. Examples:
Joni will travel to Dallas, Texas; Buffalo, New York; and Boston, Massachusetts.
There are certain classes that everyone seems to take: English, 9th grade; Algebra, 10th grade; Biology, 11th grade; and Chemistry, 12th grade.
Everybody needs to write a part of the report: the introduction, Mary's group; history, John's group; and conclusion, Eliza's group.
Joni will travel to Dallas, Texas; Buffalo, New York; and Boston, Massachusetts.
There are certain classes that everyone seems to take: English, 9th grade; Algebra, 10th grade; Biology, 11th grade; and Chemistry, 12th grade.
Everybody needs to write a part of the report: the introduction, Mary's group; history, John's group; and conclusion, Eliza's group.
Sources: http://www.thewritingteacher.org/writing-blog-home/tag/grammar
Last modified: Saturday, May 22, 2010, 1:35 PM