When should you use a semicolon examples?
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. It is also preferable to use a comma after these words and terms. Example: Bring any two items; however, sleeping bags and tents are in short supply.
What does a semicolon signify?
But to thousands affected by suicide, the semicolon has become an important signifier of survival. Thanks to Amy Bleuel, the often misunderstood symbol has morphed from a simple punctuation mark to a badge of pride for those who struggle with depression, suicide, addiction, anxiety, and self-injury.
How many semicolons is too many?
Used the first way, I’d say anything more than one semicolon is too many (unless you are deliberately creating an atmosphere where you want the reader to not breathe to create tension).
Can you overuse semicolons?
A Word, Please: Semicolons have two specific purposes, so don’t overuse.
Can you use more than one semicolon in a sentence?
Generally, no. It serves the same structural function as a period, but indicates a relationship between the two independent clauses. That kind of falls to pieces if you start stringing them together. If if you’ve got two semicolons, just make one a period.
Do you capitalize after a colon?
Here’s our suggestion: generally, the first word following the colon should be lower-cased if the words after the colon form a dependent clause (that is, if they could not stand on their own as a complete sentence). If the following phrase is a complete (independent) clause, you may choose to capitalize it or not.
Can I use a colon before a quote?
You can use a colon before a quotation when the quotation is at least one sentence. Having a quotation that is a full sentence (or more) is far more common than having an introduction that is an independent clause.
Can a colon be used in a salutation?
Use a colon rather than a comma to follow the salutation in a business letter, even when addressing someone by his or her first name. (Never use a semicolon after a salutation.) A comma is used after the salutation in more informal correspondence.
How do you use a colon in a question?
Use a colon at the end of a complete statement to introduce a question. Example: The primary question is this: Should we give up or keep working diligently toward our goal? Use a colon to separate a title from its subtitle.
Can you use a semicolon when asking a question?
When someone asks two questions and uses “or” in between, there are two options: Put a comma/semicolon before the “or” that separates the two sentences and a question mark at the end; or make it into two questions.
What is an example of a compound question?
Compound questions are most frequently asked during cross-examination. An example could be: As you approached the intersection, did you look down, change the radio station, and then look up and for the first time notice the oncoming car?
What is an example of an interrogative sentence?
There are three basic question types and they are all interrogative sentences: Yes/No question: the answer is “yes or no”, for example: Choice question: the answer is “in the question”, for example: Do you want tea or coffee? (Tea please.)
Which connectives is used in interrogative sentences?
Answer: Interrogative sentences beginning with an auxiliary verb are changed into the indirect speech by using the connective if or whether.