Because semicolons can be used to connect related independent clauses, they are often interchangeable with periods. That said, semicolons are not interchangeable with periods when used in a list: … Since items in a list are not independent clauses, they cannot be separated by periods.
Why use a semicolon instead of a period?
They are not as strong as normal conjunctions, so they need a semicolon to help them hold the sentence together. Think of semicolons as thoughtful pauses, as opposed to the full stop indicated by a period. Semicolons can fluidly link two complete ideas without the need for conjunctions.
What is period punctuation?
What is a Period? A period is a small dot-shaped punctuation mark that is used at the end of any sentence that is intended to make a statement. As with other punctuation marks that end sentences, the period should be placed directly behind the last letter of the last word of the sentence.
What punctuation is most similar to a period?
The exclamation point
An exclamation point (!) ends a sentence emphatically. It replaces a period to express strong feelings, like excitement, anger, or surprise.
Are periods and commas the same?
A period and a comma are two little punctuation marks. … A comma means to pause while a period… a period means it’s over. A comma is used to give space while a period… a period says there is no more space to give because the end has come.
Is it bad to overuse semicolons?
A Word, Please: Semicolons have two specific purposes, so don’t overuse – Los Angeles Times.
Can a fragment follow a semicolon?
A semicolon should never be used to join fragments or to connect two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction (e.g. and, but, and or). A comma is the appropriate punctuation in those situations.
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.
Do you always put a semicolon before however?
As a conjunctive adverb, however is used to combine two sentences and show their contrast or opposition. In this case, use a semicolon (;) before and a comma (,) after the word however. o The festival was to be held today; however, it was canceled due to the rainy weather.
Is semicolon a punctuation?
Semicolons are punctuation marks used to separate parts of sentences. Use a semicolon in the following instances. Two independent clauses. Use a semicolon when separating two independent clauses that are not joined by a conjunction.
When should you use a comma a semicolon or a period?
Rule: Use the semicolon if you have two independent clauses connected without a conjunction. Example: I have painted the house; I still need to sand the floors. 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.
Where do you put the period in a name?
A period should be placed after an initial and after most abbreviations.
When should a semicolon not be used?
Do not use a semicolon when a dependent clause comes before an independent clause. As we have stated above, semicolons can be used to join two complete sentences. Since a dependent clause does not express a complete thought, it is not a complete sentence and cannot be joined to your independent clause by a semicolon.
Does a single word need a period?
But in informal or dramatic writing or dialog, single standalone words are fine for emphasis–it’s a stylistic choice–and you have to punctuate it, so you use a period (or something which includes a full stop such as a question mark or exclamation mark).
What is a period and comma called?
Punctuation is the name for marks used in writing text. … These are some common punctuation marks used in English: . is a period or full stop. , is a comma.
Did I use a semicolon correctly?
Rules for Using Semicolons
A semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought. … Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases.
Does a semicolon MEAN AND or OR?
Most commonly, the semicolon is used between two independent clauses (i.e., clauses that could stand alone as separate sentences) when a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) is omitted.
Where do you use a semicolon instead of a comma?
The semicolon is used when connecting two sentences or independent clauses. Unlike the comma, you do not use coordinating conjunctions, e.g., and, or, but, etc. A semicolon can also be used when connecting two independent clauses with conjunctive adverbs, e.g., however, therefore, thus, otherwise, etc.
Should there be a period before however?
Use a Period (Full Stop) or a Semicolon before “However” A transitional phrase like “however” will usually start a new sentence, but if you would like a smoother transition than that afforded by a period, you can use a semicolon before it to merge the new sentence with the previous one.
Can you start a sentence with but?
There’s no rule against beginning a sentence with but. Sure, it’s a wise admonition from middle-school English teachers that novice writers avoid beginning a series of sentences with but. In July we went to Six Flags. But it rained that day.
Can a sentence start with therefore?
Using therefore is perfectly acceptable as long as you partner it with the right punctuation, although it can get a bit confusing as it does have different uses. You can put it in the middle of a sentence with two commas, and it can also be placed at the start of a sentence.