When to use a semicolon instead of a comma in a list?
Usually, we use a comma to separate three items or more in a list. However, if one or more of these items contain commas, then you should use a semicolon, instead of a comma, to separate the items and avoid potential confusion.
Do you use a semicolon before and in a list?
The general rule is to use the semicolons as you would use commas with ordinary list items: The so-called Oxford comma complicates matters. Many people put a comma before the last item in a list, and many people do not; it ultimately boils down to taste and whether the style guide you’re working with requires it.
What is the proper way to use a semicolon?
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 is the correct punctuation for a list?
Punctuate the list items with commas if they are not complete sentences; with semicolons, if they are complete sentences. Use the same spacing for in-sentence lists as in regular non-list text. Whenever possible, make the in-sentence list occur at the end of the sentence.
How do you use colons and semicolons?
Colons (:) are used in sentences to show that something is following, like a quotation, example, or list. Semicolons (;) are used to join two independent clauses, or two complete thoughts that could stand alone as complete sentences.
Do you use and after semicolon?
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. 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.”
Can you put a fanboy after a semicolon?
Semicolons take the place of periods or commas followed by coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Semicolons should be used before conjunctive adverbs (however, meanwhile, therefore, otherwise, in addition, and others) to link together sentences.
What words can you use after a semicolon?
2. Use a semicolon between independent clauses linked with a transitional expression.
| accordingly | finally | similarly |
|---|---|---|
| besides | however | subsequently |
| certainly | incidentally | the |
| consequently | indeed | therefore |
| conversely | instead | thu |
How do you use a semicolon with two sentences?
Rule. Use a semicolon between closely related independent clauses which are not joined by a coordinating conjunction. This rule means that semicolons are used between two complete sentences which are not already linked by words like and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet.
Should a letter be capitalized after a semicolon?
Do not capitalize the first word in a list after a semicolon unless the word is a proper noun, e.g., During Julie’s vacation, she visited many Canadian cities, including St.
Can you use two semicolons 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.
What 3 main things can semicolons replace?
Semicolon Usage: The Three Functions of Semicolons in Written English
- Semicolons.
- Join two related independent clauses of equal emphasis.
- Join two independent clauses in which the second clause begins with an adverb or short parenthetical.
- Separate items that contain commas in a series.
What are the three semicolon rules?
Three Essential Semicolon Rules
- Rule 1: Use a semicolon between independent clauses that are closely related in theme.
- Rule 2: Use a semicolon before conjunctive adverbs and transitional phrases that join independent clauses.
How many times can you use a semicolon?
In general, I use semicolons for two purposes: to link together two sentences that are related without having the pause you get with a period, and to separate things in a list where commas are being used.
What does a semicolon tattoo mean?
sentence is your life
Can you use a semicolon and a comma in the same sentence?
Rule: Also use the semicolon when you already have commas within a sentence for smaller separations, and you need the semicolon to show bigger separations. Example: We had a reunion with family from Salt Lake City, Utah; Los Angeles, California; and Albany, New York.
What is the difference between a comma and a semicolon?
Commas are used especially as a mark of separation within the sentence; semicolons are used to connect independent clauses.
How do you use a semicolon with however?
“However” indicates the relationship between the two independent clauses is one of contrast or opposition. Use a semicolon before and a comma after “however” when you are using it to write a compound sentence. The engineers claimed that the bridge was safe; however, they were still not prepared to risk crossing.
Do you use a comma or semicolon after however?
Use a semi-colon (;) before and a comma (,) after however when you are using it to write a compound sentence. If ‘however’ is used to begin a sentence, it must be followed by a comma, and what appears after the comma must be a complete sentence.
How do you know the sentence is correct or not?
In order for a sentence to be grammatically correct, the subject and verb must both be singular or plural. In other words, the subject and verb must agree with one another in their tense.
Have been and had been?
“Had been” is used to mean that something happened in the past and has already ended. “Have been” and “has been” are used to mean that something began in the past and has lasted into the present time.
When to use have been and had been?
Present perfect ‘have/has been ‘ is used when describing an action completed in the recent past and still assumes importance in the present. We use ‘had been’ when you describe something that happened in the past before something else in the past.