Are semicolons ever necessary?

Semicolons have two functions. They connect closely related independent clauses and they serve as sort of uber commas to manage unwieldy lists. Independent clauses by definition can stand alone as sentences. That means that a semicolon between them is never necessary.

Do not use semicolons?

The first rule: do not use semicolons. Two independent clauses do not have to be joined by a semicolon. They can be replaced with a period. Using a semicolon before conjunctive adverbs like “however” and “therefore” is also an option.

What’s the purpose of semicolons?

Semicolons with independent clauses 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). Make sure when you use the semicolon that the connection between the two independent clauses is clear without the coordinating conjunction.

What 3 things do semicolons replace?

A semicolon is often used to replace a coordinating conjunction like ‘and’ or ‘but’. The sentence about Sandip could have been written like this: Sandip spent three hours in the library but he couldn’t find the book he wanted.

Why do people not like semicolons?

Distaste for the semicolon comes from a lot of different angles. Some people have a sheer aesthetic distrust of it. They just like short sentences, for instance. They think that’s more direct or more pleasing in some way, or more clear.

How long can a sentence be with semicolons?

Semicolons connect two complete sentences. Colons typically connect dependent clauses (incomplete sentences), though there are rare cases where a colon can join two independent clauses for the purpose of emphasizing the second clause.

Which sentence uses a 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.

Who made the semicolon?

Aldus Manutius
One of these humanists, Aldus Manutius, was the matchmaker who paired up comma and colon to create the semicolon.

Do you delete the conjunction when you use a semicolon?

Delete the Conjunction When You Use a Semicolon. That something can either be the right conjunction or the period that turns a comma into a semicolon. If semicolons can link independent clauses that would otherwise have a period or a conjunction between them, that means they can demonstrate contrast, too.

Do you need a comma if you have a semicolon?

That means when you use a semicolon, you use it instead of the ands, buts, and ors; you don’t need both. Here’s 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.”

How do you use semicolons in a sentence?

Semicolon 1 Semicolons Connect Related Independent Clauses. 2 Delete the Conjunction When You Use a Semicolon. 3 Use Semicolons in a Serial List. 4 Use Semicolons With Conjunctive Adverbs. 5 Use a Semicolon to Give a Wily Wink.

Can a semicolon be used to link two independent clauses?

A semicolon isn’t the only thing that can link two independent clauses. Conjunctions (that’s your ands, buts, and ors) can do that too. But you shouldn’t use a semicolon and a conjunction. That means when you use a semicolon, you use it instead of the ands, buts, and ors; you don’t need both.