The list of collective nouns is endless but we are restricting, Read More List of 150+ Collective Nouns for Animals and BirdsContinue, Collective Nouns for People An army of soldiers An ambush of widows A band of musicians A band of men A band coyotes A banner, Read More List of 80+ Collective Nouns for PeopleContinue, Your email address will not be published. Im an early riser; I get up at 5 am every day. Conjunctions (thats your ands, buts, and ors) can do that too. These words sometimes show up in other parts of a sentence; therefore, the semicolon rule only applies if it helps the conjunctive adverb join two independent clauses. Has Have Had use in sentences | 50 Examples, There is There are Sentences | 50 Examples, Is am are sentences in English (50 Examples), 50 Sentences of Present Perfect Continuous Tense, 50 Sentences of Past Perfect Continuous Tense, 50 Sentences of Future Perfect Continuous Tense, What are Transitive Verbs in English? After I ate dinner, I went to the movies. Use commas for direct address, tag questions, mild interjections, and yes/no: I hate to say In its main use, the semicolon both separates distinct ideas (as a period does) and enables those ideas to be connected within the same sentence (like a comma can): An independent clause is a clause thats capable of standing on its own. Get powerful productivity and security apps with Microsoft 365, All About Semicolons: How to Use Them in Your Writing. Semicolons (;) are as basic as a period stacked on top of a comma. Correct: I have one goal: to find her. Whereas, a comma should not come before it when it is used to begin the sentence and when it is used inside open and close parenthetical marks. Rule: If you have only one clause (one subject and verb pair), you wont usually need a comma in front of the conjunction. We have paid our dues; we expect all the privileges listed in the contract. She ate an apple, a sandwich, a cookie, and a granola bar. = She finished top of her class; she was struggling to find work. Ideally, it would be sweet, salty, and chocolatey; would feature the soft, creamy texture that Mabel adored; and be suitable for breakfast as well as dessert. In both cases, check that the two ideas are independent clauses that could stand on their own as sentences. The implications of using for example When you use a semicolon, you do not need to add that coordinating moreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise, What Are Suffixes in English? I love going there; however, it is a bit obscure. Dogs are smarter than cats, because they can do tricks; spoken language skills are better than just barking. Some common conjunctive adverbs include moreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise, and consequently. In particular, you need to place a post-comma when it serves as the introductory phrase of a sentence, when you're parenthetically using it midway, and when it comes after a semicolon. A comma is used between a dialog tag (such as A semicolon creates more separation between thoughts than a It helps avoid being vague I would love to go to France; Paris or Marseille. Heres a hint: if you used a comma and an and to link two related ideas, think of the period (you know, the top part of the semicolon) as a replacement and.. Semicolons are used especially when the second clause is introduced by an adverb or a short phrase, such as however, indeed, thus, in that case, as a result, on the other hand, for example, or that is: Mabel did not take kindly to the encroachment of Harry into her personal cooking space; indeed, she at one point responded to the sudden appearance of his muzzle at her elbow with a distinct and species-appropriate hiss. The most common use of the semicolon is to join two independent clauses without using a conjunction like and. A semicolon separates related independent clauses that are joined without a coordinating conjunction, such as and: Mabel the Cat had made a big pot of goulash; it was simmering on the stove. We can go to the museum to do some research; Mondays are pretty quiet there. Semicolons (;) are used to join Jack did not eat the leftovers in the fridge; instead, he ordered a pizza. Incorrect: The conference has people who have come from Moscow, Idaho, Springfield, California, Alamo, Tennessee, and other places as well. While most of our site should function with out, we recommend turning it back on for a better experience. For more information about semicolons, see the following links: While, in general, the list items are divided with commas, if the list items themselves contain a comma, then there should be separated with semicolons. When writing becomes a hard skill, it will have a lot of techniques and styles that Use a semicolon to separate units of a series when one or more of the units contain commas. She felt terrible, but she went to class anyway. (See what we did there?). Microsoft 365 Life Hacks > Writing > All About Semicolons: How to Use Them in Your Writing. That is, its a complete thought and a complete, grammatically correct sentence. Semicolons are also particularly useful for simplifying sentences that contain long lists of items or complex punctuation: In this example, the semicolons make it possible to list everything that was needed from this particular shopping trip; meanwhile, they make it easy to provide further information about certain segments of the shopping list. Note that, unlike commas and periods, a semicolon that punctuates the larger sentence is placed outside quotation marks and parentheses: For her birthday, Harry gave Mabel an apron that said "Number 1 Cook"; Mabel cordially accepted it but has yet to wear it. I like to write; my blog is dedicated to English Grammar. The contest is open to all who wish to participate; we only ask you send us your best entry by noon on Sunday. To summarize, a semicolon links up two related ideas by narrowing the gap between the ideas of two separate sentences or by replacing a conjunction between two related ideas. Example: Bring any two items; however, sleeping bags and tents are in short supply. They come in all shapes and sizes, from tiny, Read More Essay on Birds (800 Words)Continue, A collective noun indicates a group of people, animals, birds, things and places, etc. Let`s go out tonight; there is a great band playing at the club. I ate dinner, and I went to the movies. Correct: The conference has people who have come from Moscow, Idaho; Springfield, California; Alamo, Tennessee; and other places as well. You can use semicolons to divide the items of a list if the items are long or contain internal punctuation. In the first example, we use a colon to indicate that the second sentence gives an explanation as Examples- Such an adverb or phrase can also appear elsewhere in the second clause: Harry was an animal driven by primal need to gain immediate access to the goulash; his options for achieving that aim were, however, limited. He had heard about oleo; he didnt know what it was. When the items in a series are long or are sentences themselves, they are usually separated by semicolons even if they lack internal commas: In the end, the meal Mabel and Harry shared was first-rate: the bread and cabbage dish complemented the goulash exquisitely; the chocolate croquembouche was divine; and the conversation was lively and amicable. Others avoid it altogether because they fear theyll be using the mark incorrectly. That means when you use a semicolon, you use it instead of the ands, buts, and ors; you dont need both. My brother is going to Spain for the summer; he will be studying Spanish. Commas come before coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when they link two independent clauses*: It was raining, and I was hurrying to get home. I like to listen to music; I prefer jazz. In particular, you need to place a post-comma when it serves as the introductory phrase of a sentence, when youre parenthetically using The semicolon looks like a comma with a period above it, and this can be a good way to remember what it does. An old-fashioned rule we can no longer put up with. Copyright by Jane Straus/GrammarBook.com. Where do you use a colon or a semicolon? A semicolon eliminates the need for the conjunction (and the comma that might come with that conjunction): Note how the ideas on either side of the semicolon are clearly connected. Using a comma instead of a semicolon in the sentences above would result in a comma splice. Rule 1a. Like a period or colon, it often marks the end of a complete clause (that is, a sentence part that has its own subject and verb). Rule 5. A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark that has two main functions: Semicolons separate items in a complex list. Or on top of your parenthetical smile. But the teacher was the greatest mind of his time; he had over a hundred ideas. And theres nothing as painful as a comma splice. Use this guide to employing semicolons correctly and learn how to bring out the best in your own writing. Example: Maisy went to the carnival; she had the time of her life. ["After I ate dinner" is not a complete sentence.]. Examples- I have two book; one is EAST OF EDEN and another one is THE SUN ALSO RISES Ram has gone to play cricket: Sam has gone to the ground. Commas follow introductory clauses and phrases: On the way home, I stopped to buy groceries. Semicolons (;) are as basic as a period stacked on top of a comma. What is the difference between Comma and Semicolon?The punctuation marks differ in appearance as a semicolon is a combination of a full stop and a comma.A comma represents the shortest pause. A comma is also used when there is an emphasis on a word.The semicolon represents a pause of greater importance than that shown by the comma.A semicolon also is used to separate two related sentences. Semicolons (;) are used to join two independent clauses, or two complete thoughts that could stand alone as complete sentences. My favorite actor is Jackie Chan; his movies are entertaining and very funny. The best thing to do is to face the problem and solve it. Items separated by commas: He is handsome, smart, and rich. MORE TO EXPLORE: Merriam-Webster Punctuation Guide, 18 words even you might be mispronouncing, The histories of 'dot-com,' 'grunge,' and other words of the nineties. That something can either be the right conjunction or the period that turns a comma into a semicolon. Uh oh! But you shouldnt use a semicolon, a conjunction. Harry's three favorite bakeries are in Pittsburgh, PA; Phoenix, AZ; and Walla Walla, WA. 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. Justcopy and paste your writinginto our Grammar Checker and get instant feedback on whether your sentences have misspellings, punctuation errors, or any structural mistakes. As a matter of fact, American football was derived from rugby. Additional Examples of Comma Splice and Corrections 1. The top shelf of her bookcase had math, science, and nature books; the second shelf had biographies, memoirs, and self-help books; and the third and fourth shelves had fiction and literature. Semicolon gives sense to the sentence without being too assertive. She traveled to the following countries: England, Italy, and Japan. When a semicolon is used to join two or more ideas (parts) in a sentence, those ideas are then given equal position or rank. Learn a new word every day. = She finished top of her class. Although it is dry ; there re many trees on the hills. Often thought of as the hallmark of either stuffy or academic writing (or both), many writers away from the semicolon out of fear of seeming overly formal. John finished all his homework, but Kathleen did not finish hers. You re looking for a job; you re not a student. n. the punctuation mark (;) used to indicate a major division in a sentence where a more distinct separation is felt between clauses or items on a list than is indicated by a comma, as between the two clauses of a compound sentence. You can also use a semicolon to separate items in a list when the items already contain commas, and to emphasize certain phrases in longer sentences. Note that a semicolon, rather than a comma, after Tennessee is correct because and other places as well also constitutes a unit of the series. 2. He was cooking her favorite dinner: cheese fajitas with corn. Next, we would use a semicolon at the end of every line except for the last line to indicate the items are separated within continuing, punctuated text. While some writers may be tempted to connect these independent clauses using a comma, this is actually a common grammatical error known as a comma splice. He said, "I'll be there in five minutes. She appreciated the sentiment (which she knows Harry feels sincerely); but the apron is simply not her style. While the colon is simply two dots stacked : the semicolon is a dot hovering over a comma ; The semicolon does jobs that are also done by other punctuation marks, but puts its own spin on the task. My plan included taking him to a nicethough not necessarily expensivedinner; going to the park to look at the stars, which, by the way, are amazing this time of year; and serenading him with my accordion. You can also use a semicolon to A semicolon is used in place of a comma to separate phrases or items in a list or series when the phrases or items themselves contain commas or are especially long: Harry set out to find a dessert that would demonstrate his deep appreciation of Mabel's meal. However, in the following example, the semicolon creates a relationship between the two ideas: Jesse cant wait for the weekend; she loves going to the beach in hot weather. Please turn up the radio; I cant hear it over the sound of the fan. (thats your ands, buts, and ors) can do that too. = I ate dinner; I went to the movies. to avoid a comma splice. Example: Amy ordered three pizzas: one with pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms; one with bacon, ham, and green peppers; and one with tomatoes, olives, and red peppers. I saw a magnificent albatross, and it was eating a mouse. Privacy Statement | Accessibility. But you shouldnt use a semicolon and a conjunction. A semicolon eliminates the need for the conjunction (and the comma that might come with that conjunction): Example: The dog is getting old; the gray hairs on her snout What is a semicolon used for? Adverb of Certainty (List, Examples & Worksheet), How to Improve Your Writing Vocabulary in 5 Effective Ways, List of 150+ Collective Nouns for Animals and Birds. of the ands, buts, and ors; you dont need both. Your email address will not be published. Dont get your hopes up. A semicolon can also join two statements when the second clause is missing some essential words that are supplied by the first clause. Example: When I finish A comma is used after conjunctive adverbs such as nonetheless, nevertheless, finally, similarly, moreover, and furthermore and after adverbs of manner such as happily, quietly, slowly, and noisily when they are at the beginning of a sentence. The general answer is no. While is a conjunction that means at the same time, Read More Sentences with While (119 Examples)Continue, Introducing new phrases to your written vocabulary is one of the easiest methods for improving your existing writing skills. Many people, however, are allergic to cats. Either he is late already or he wont come at all; a lack of punctuality is not my concern. A semicolon is used to separate items in a list when the items themselves have commas. A comma is used to separate items in a list. But first, a caveat: avoid the common mistake of using a semicolon to replace a colon (see Colons). Writing, grammar, and communication tips for your inbox. your text, so your work is extra polished wherever you write. I parked my car outside the house; the street was busy. Dont get your hopes up. For example, The Council is comprised of ten members: three from Sydney, Australia; four from Auckland, New Zealand; two from Suva, Fiji; and one from Honiara, Solomon Islands. Mario Lanza was the tenor with the beautiful voice; he went to Hollywood and died of a heart attack at age thirty. The semicolon is the colon's quirkier sibling. The shirt had blue, green, yellow, and orange flowers on it. This conjunctive adverb rule is similar to the conjunction rule. Colons and semicolons are two types of punctuation. It's no accident that a semicolon (;) is a period atop a comma. Delivered to your inbox. She finished top of her class, but she was struggling to find work. It helps avoid being vague and vague to encourage thought. Many companies are now turning to virtual services; they are simply cheaper. The manager was having trouble keeping track of expenses; his spreadsheet was not helping. I saw a magnificent albatross; it was eating a mouse. He explained oleo: Its a non-dairy butter substitute. The stories are both; well written plots. Grandmother opposed to my new hair color; she is afraid I will be mistaken for a skunk. This shows that you are sure of what you are saying. Semicolons and items in a series Semicolons are used to separate more than two items in a series when there is a comma in one or more of the items. I ate dinner, and I went to the movies. semicolon. Let me know your decision; we need to start making plans soon. ["the only adult in the room" tells us more about the noun "teacher."]. I live with Larry, a student; Moe, an executive; and Curly, a cop. When you have a conjunctive adverb linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. When a comma separates two complete sentences joined by a conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, or yet) the comma and the conjunction can be replaced with a semicolon. To correct a comma splice, a semicolon can be used. Comma Splice: The dog looked everywhere for his bone, he forgot that he buried it by the tree. Like a comma, it can separate elements in a series. I needed to go for a walk and get some fresh air; also, I needed to buy milk. Semicolon (;) is used in English to join independent clauses. Im going to the beach; it is very hot here in Taiwan. Rule 2. That something can either be the right conjunction or the period that turns a comma into a semicolon. Definition and Examples, What Are Consonants? If semicolons can link independent clauses that would otherwise have a period or a conjunction between them, that means they can demonstrate contrast, too. But dont let this. A: The main rule for using a semicolon correctly is to connect two independent clauses without using a conjunction like and or but.. Most often, semicolons are used to connect two independent clauses instead of using a comma + conjunction. Incorrect: I am here; You are over there. Definition and Examples, What Are Prefixes in English? This is not the case; there are plenty of items that you will still have to travel for business. What does semicolon mean example? His spreadsheet was not helping. You need a comma plus something to avoid a comma splice. Incorrect: I have one goal; to find her. The cat slept through the storm; the dog cowered under the bed. A semicolon can replace a period if the writer wishes to narrow the gap between two closely linked sentences (independent clauses). It even proofreads your text, so your work is extra polished wherever you write. Examples: Call me tomorrow; you can give me an answer then. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Colons and semicolons are two types of punctuation. You have been successfully subscribed to the Grammarly blog. For example,, Read More Adverb of Certainty (List, Examples & Worksheet)Continue, We can use while to talk about time and to talk about a repeated action. We use cookies and similar technologies to improve your website experience and help us understand how you use our website. The Smith family; Jill, Ken and the children; Thompson, Tessa and Tom; has always loved camping; but after visiting one of the worlds largest shopping malls; they decided to take their camping trip indoors. 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 ). Instead, theyre somewhere in between: stronger than a comma but not quite as divisive as a period. A comma after for example is generally necessary no matter where it appears in the sentence. In this case, attended the meeting is not a unit of the series and therefore is preceded only by a comma. A: The main rule for using a semicolon correctly is to connect two independent clauses without using a conjunction like and or but.. ["I ate dinner" and "I went to the movies" are both complete sentences.]. It tells you you have to read on before reaching a point of real understanding. [The comma before. Finally, she was able to take a week off work to go visit her family. Despite its reputation though, the semicolon is a wonderfully versatile piece of punctuation that writers of all stripes can use to draw connections between their thoughtsand make their sentences easier to readin ways that other punctuation marks, like dashes, simply cant. A semicolon serves the same function as either (a) a period or (b) a comma + a coordinating conjunction. = I ate dinner. (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({}); Sign up to receive the FREE weekly GrammarBook.com E-Newsletter. When you are certain about something, you use an adverb of certainty. Reports of the damage caused by the hurricane were greatly exaggerated; indeed, the storm was not a hurricane at all. Remember, semicolons are not interchangeable with commas or periods. Make sure when you use the semicolon that the connection between the two independent clauses is clear without the coordinating conjunction. Example: I painted and he sanded. The superhero had a secret identity and a secret origin; he was a mild-mannered reporter that worked for the Daily Bugle. If so, then youre grammatically good to go as far as the semicolon is concerned. Examples of Semicolons: Joan likes eggs; Jennifer does not. Here are a few rules with examples that I hope you find very helpful. Im optimistic about your future; this year will be your most successful yet! I like to exercise; for instance, I go to the gym every night after work. In short sentences, a comma often replaces the semicolon: Mabel's cooking prowess, honed through years of complex feasts, was formidable; the interruption of its application ill-advised. By continuing to use this website, you consent to the usage of cookies. (Examples & List), Helping Verbs (Auxiliary Verbs) in English, Free Printable Adverb Chart (Anchor Chart). A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark that has two main functions: Semicolons separate items in a complex list. I was just thinking about getting a sandwich; do you know anywhere good? Grammarly helps you communicate confidently In the second example, we use a semicolon to indicate the second sentence is closely related to the first sentence. A semicolon isnt the only thing that can link two independent clauses. Correction: The wedding was beautiful, and we celebrated for several hours. A semicolon can also replace a comma between two clauses that are joined by a coordinating conjunction like and in cases where the sentence might otherwise be confusingfor example, because of particularly long clauses, or the presence of other commas: As Mabel's culinary efforts continued, with bread baking in the oven and a cabbage dish just begun, she admonished Harry to keep out of her way; but Harry's ability to remain at a decent distance from the stove was severely challenged. The little puppy is so adorable, he makes my heart melt with joy every time I see his adorable little face. Does that mean you can use it like either one? A comma is used to separate two or more adjectives that modify the same noun. Semicolons (;) separate independent clauses that are related in meaning, and they separate items in a list when those items themselves are long or include commas. This is part of the same rule, but the conjunction in question is but instead of and. In other words: This is part of the same rule; the conjunction in question is but instead of and.. The tour itinerary includes skiing on fresh snow, mountain trekking, and a lavish meal at the local restaurant. Commas - After Introductory Transition Words, Phrases, and Clauses Commas - Surrounding (Non)-essential / (Non)-restrictive Phrases Commas - Around Interrupting On the other hand, many diets decrease stamina and strength. Each semicolon brings us closer to the top. Do not capitalize ordinary words after a semicolon. With the help of these semicolon examples and guidelines, you can start using semicolons in your own writing with confidence. She was struggling to find work. Incorrect: Although they tried; they failed. Im not all that fond of the colors of tiger lilies; moreover, they dont smell very good. The semicolon is a good punctuation mark to have in your back pocket. Do you use a capital letter after a semicolon? While running out the door, I tripped on the doormat. The semicolon is the colon's quirkier sibling. That means when you use a semicolon, you use it. Semicolons have other functions, too. How to use a word that (literally) drives some pe Editor Emily Brewster clarifies the difference. Material created by Jane Straus and GrammarBook.com. A comma is used between a dialog tag (such as "she said") and a quotation. It is important to get enough sleep; however, too much sleep can be bad for your health. The team played excellent football; almost too good for its own good. Your writing, at its best What does semicolon mean example? Professional Web Design by weblinxinc.com, Connecting Sentences with Commas and Semicolons, Using Commas, Semicolons, and Colons Within Sentences. Commas and semicolons both can separate phrases, clauses, or sentences, but they are used in different ways. There are things that we dont want to happen but have to accept; running away from our problems never helps. I like reading; novels, plays, poems I like them all! On her way home she stopped to see an old friend; they talked for some time and then she walked the rest of the way home. I found my missing shoe, the left one, under my bed. For example, this summary could say "Semicolons are useful; they show that clauses are related in meaning.". So whether youre using it to whip up a good complex sentence or to give someone a wink, now you know how to do it right. Example Cats have fur; they are soft. Semicolon Examples, PDF Writing is a soft skill that can lead to a hard skill through specialization. Examples of Semicolons: Joan likes eggs; Jennifer does not. Sentences With Semicolons (;) 50 Examples. Colons (:) are used in sentences to show that something is following, like a quotation, example, or list. She had long, dark, straight, thick hair. A comma is used to separate two or more adjectives that modify the same noun. Make sure when you use the semicolon that the connection between the two independent clauses is clear without the coordinating conjunction. Correct: Dante Martinez, a registered nurse; Susan Brooks, a dietician; and Chien-Ling Ko, a physical therapist, attended the meeting. Copyright 2022 George Mason University. The teacher, the only adult in the room, made sure we were all present before beginning her lecture. The book is informative; it has helpful charts and graphs. Correct: Although they tried, they failed. They couldn't make it to the summit and A semicolon can join two closely related independent clauses. A comma is used between a dependent clause (incomplete sentence) and an independent clause (complete sentence). Semicolon (;) Use a semicolon when you link two independent clauses with no connecting words. Martha has gone to the library; her sister has gone to play soccer. It looks like you have JavaScript turned off. Definition and Examples. I like to read; I am an avid reader of historical fiction. In these cases, the semicolon helps readers keep track of the divisions between the items. A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark that is used to separate and connect independent clauses or when something stronger than a comma is needed. A comma before for example should be placed when it appears in series, and when it parenthetically disrupts the sentence midway or at the end. Some people write with a word processor; others write with a pen The scent of the baking bread was sublime, the perfume of the goulash intoxicating. Here are 50 example sentences with semicolons. Heres a tip: Want to make sure your writing shines? Grammarly stands with our friends, colleagues, and family in Ukraine, and with all people of Ukraine. Commas indicate direct quoted speech: He said, Lets go, and we did. A semicolon isnt the only thing that can link two independent clauses. Because it was raining, I took a taxi home. Avoid a semicolon when a dependent clause comes before an independent clause. Using a Semicolon to Avoid a Comma Splice. linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. Use a semi-colon before the conjunctive adverb (such as however and therefore) that joins two independent clauses. To do this in formal writing, we would first separate each item into lines of a list. That goes for showing contrast, too: just because two ideas are opposed or contradictory, that doesnt mean they arent related closely enough to earn themselves a semicolon. I went to the movies. A comma is used on both sides of additional information about a noun. For example: I am going home; I intend to stay there. First of all delete the conjunction when you use a semicolon. Typically, to join independent clauses within the same sentence, you would need to use a conjunction (e.g., and, but, or). Example: I like working outside; I also enjoy reading. Yup, that was one now. And like a colon, it signals that what follows it is closely related to what comes before it. I am sorry; there is nothing I can do for you. Rule 1b. Correct: I am here; you are over there. Choosing Between Infinitive and Gerund: To do or doing? You should take the bus, its better than walking. Here are some of the words we're currently looking at for a spot in the dictionary. Example: Linda went to Combining Clauses to Avoid Comma Splices, Run-ons, and Fragments, Improving Cohesion: The "Known/New Contract", Same Form, but Different Functions: Various Meanings of Verb+ing and Verb+ed, The Three Common Tenses Used in Academic Writing, Using Reduced Relative Clauses to Write Concisely, Word Order in Statements with Embedded Questions. Commas Rule: Use a comma between two independent clauses when conjunctions such as and, or, but, for, nor The wedding was beautiful, we celebrated for several hours. Rule 4. Example: I have painted the Thats exactly why you cant substitute a comma for a semicolon. Semicolon: Yuki is a great leader; the company has flourished under his watch. 2. See how the semicolon is used. Use a semi-colon in place of the comma and conjunction to separate the two independent clauses in a compound sentence. The examples above are each made up of two complete, grammatically correct sentences glued together. In the first example, we use a colon to indicate that the second sentence gives an explanation as to why Yuki is a great leader. And theres nothing as painful as a comma splice. Similarly, semicolons can be used to connect independent clauses when they use a transitional phrase (e.g., as a result, for example, or in addition) or conjunctive adverbs (e.g., however, similarly, or meanwhile). semicolon. My parents, who met each other in 1962, have been married for 50 years. I like the colors; purple is my favorite color. All Rights Reserved. A semicolon, true to its appearance, combines some of the uses of a comma and a period into one convenient punctuation mark. Example: Many have claimed that the sky is blue (Hawking et al., 1994; Lima, 2003; Steinberg & Jordan, 2001). The shirt had blue, green, yellow, and orange flowers on it. A comma separates two complete sentences joined by and, but, or, nor, for, so, or yet. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced searchad free! In the first example, its easy to understand that age is the likely cause of the dogs graying fur. Lets put that another way. The 14 Punctuation Marks with Examples We can break down the punctuation marks into five categories, as follows: Sentence endings: period, question mark, exclamation point Comma, colon, and semicolon Dash and hyphen Brackets, braces, and parentheses Apostrophe, quotation marks, and ellipsis Below are some of the most common ways commas and semicolons are used. It is also preferable to use a comma after these words and terms. A semicolon should be followed by a capital letter only if the word is a proper noun or an acronym. Example Hockey is boring; this is why I prefer basketball. A semicolon may be used between independent clauses joined by a connector, such as and, but, or, nor, etc., when one or more commas appear in the first clause. For better or worse; he will always be just a little boy to me. Grammarly can check your spelling and save you from grammar and punctuation mistakes. Heres a tip: You dont have to guess whether youre using certain words correctly or breakinggrammar rules in your writing. The students had been advised against walking alone at night; however, Cathy decided walking wasnt dangerous if it was early in the evening. Most often, semicolons are used to Goulash was Harry the Dog's favorite; the scent drew him to the kitchen. Some common conjunctive adverbs include. Like commas, semicolons indicate an audible pauseslightly longer than a comma's, but short of a period's full stop. 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