Another reason to use a semicolon is to draw attention to how related your two clauses are. The semicolon in our example sentence highlights that thereasonyou can’t go out tonight is that you have a big test tomorrow. You wouldn’t write, “English is my fifth period class; I can’...
Finally, you use a semicolon when you use a conjunctive adverb or transitional phrase to join two main clauses. Conjunctive adverbs are words such as “however,”“therefore,” and “indeed.” Here’s an example of how you could use them with semicolons: I have a big test tomorrow; th...
Of course, the trick is knowing when to use a semicolon and when to use a colon. It isn’t always easy to tell which one is more appropriate than the other, especially since they look so similar. Let’s take a look at the major differences between the two to help you make ...
Use a semicolonto 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 ...
A semicolon should also be used before an introductory word when it introduces a complete sentence. Make sure that you always use a comma after the introductory word. I would love to go to the party; however, I have to stay home tonight and study grammar. ...
Do you want to learn an easy, smart method to upgrade your English writing? A way to get higher grades and better job prospects, while looking more educated? Watch this important lesson and learn all about the semi-colon. I explain exactly what this punc
Examples of a semicolon in a sentence The following examples show how we use semicolons in sentences. We went to the zoo yesterday;it was fun to see all of the cool animals. Bananas and apples are both fruits;however, they don’t look anything alike. ...
Like semicolons, colons join two pieces of a sentence together; however, the two marks have few similarities in usage.The colon’s jobis simply to introduce the information that follows it, often emphasizing it at the same time. It breaks up the flow of a sentence, telling the reader to...
As with a colon, place a semicolon outside quotation marks regardless of whether it’s before or after a quotation. My father said, “Take off your dirty shoes before you come into the house”; they weren’t even dirty to begin with. Use a semicolon inside quotation marks when it’s...
4. Use Semicolons With Conjunctive Adverbs When you have a conjunctive adverb linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. Some common conjunctive adverbs includemoreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise,andconsequently. ...