Tuesday, July 27, 2010

The Semicolon (dun dun dun)


semicolon 2
Originally uploaded by Bingo Little

Grammar tip o’ the week

Use the semicolon between independent clauses when “and,” “but,” “or,” or “nor” is omitted. *Do not use a comma, as the sentence has no coordinating conjunction.*


Examples:
• The writer hated semicolons; the editor loved them.
• My friend loves Metallica; I think they are awful.
• Madison runs every day; Mac prefers to walk.


Important
If the two clauses are not strongly related, make them separate sentences.


Example:
• I appreciate your interest in grammar. The question you sent about semicolons will be answered in a timely fashion.