What is a semi colon explain its function?
A semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought. When a semicolon is used to join two or more ideas (parts) in a sentence, those ideas are then given equal position or rank.
What is a simple definition of a semicolon?
: a punctuation mark; that can be used to separate parts of a sentence which need clearer separation than would be shown by a comma, to separate main clauses which have no conjunction between, and to separate phrases and clauses containing commas.
What is the function of a semicolon 3 points?
The semicolon is used to separate independent clauses in specific situations. It also separates a series of items which contain internal punctuation. 1. Use a semicolon between independent clauses when the clauses are closely related in meaning and when there is no coordinating conjunction between them.
How do you use a semicolon in a list?
Semicolons can be used to link items in a list, such as objects, locations, names and descriptions. Where the list items already contain commas, a semicolon helps avoid confusion between the items; in this way the semicolon acts like a ‘super comma’.
What does semicolon mean in literature?
A semicolon is a punctuation mark that separates independent clauses, or to repair a comma splice. As it suggests a close link between two clauses, it appears mostly in academic writing.
What is 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.
How do you use a semicolon ks2?
Semi-colons are mainly used within a sentence to separate clauses. The clauses must be on the same theme and not be joined together with a conjunction; the semi-colon takes the place of the conjunction within the sentence.
What are some examples of semicolons?
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.
Can you use a semicolon to introduce a list?
Semicolons separate items within a list, while a colon precedes and introduces a list.
How do you use a semicolon in research?
Use a semicolon to join two independent clauses when the second clause begins with a conjunctive adverb (however, therefore, moreover, furthermore, thus, meanwhile, nonetheless, otherwise) or a transition word (in fact, for example, that is, for instance, in addition, in other words, on the other hand, even so).
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.
Which sentence uses semicolon correctly?
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.
What is the correct way to use a semicolon?
Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases. However they choose to write, people are allowed to make their own decisions; as a result, many people swear by their writing methods. Use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction if the clauses are already punctuated with commas or if the clauses are lengthy.
How do you properly US a semicolon?
The most common way to use a semicolon is to link two complete sentences rather than separating them by a period, whether they are simple sentences, contain internal punctuation, or are connected with a transitional phrase or conjunctive adverb such as “however,” “besides,” “finally,” or “in addition.”
What are the two uses of a semi-colon?
Here’s when to use a semicolon: To link closely-related independent clauses To separate two independent clauses that are connected by a transitional phrase or conjunctive adverb To separate two independent clauses that are connected by a coordinating conjunction if those clauses are very long or already punctuated with commas
What are the rules for using a semicolon?
Rule 2: A semicolon can be used before words like ‘namely’, ‘however’, ‘therefore’, ‘that is’ (i.e.), ‘for example’ (e.g.), or ‘for instance’, if they are at the beginning of either a complete sentence or a list. A comma is generally used after such these words.