WHEN TO USE A SEMICOLON
Have you ever heard about “semicolons”? Have you ever used “semicolon” in a sentence?
The semicolon is not as “popular” as “comma”, “period” and “apostrophe”. One of the major reasons that some people don’t use semicolons in constructing a sentence because they are afraid that they might get wrong in using it. However, this article may be a pathway for you to get rid of that “semicolon traumas”!
Semicolons are used to separate words or sentences that are not related to each other. It is like you want to end your sentence, but changed your mind not to. Semicolons indicate as a pause. Using semicolons does not need conjunctions like “and”. It is a joint of independent clauses.
Below is the guide to using semicolons:
1. Connecting independent clauses without using “and”
Examples:
Apples are great for breakfast; I am not a morning person.
Mcdonalds’ meal is not delicious as before; they have blueberry pies.
Take note: Both of the independent clauses are constructed in a complete sentence, which is a must. Also, after the semicolon, the first letter should not be capitalized unless it is a specific noun or name or I.
2. As a “Set-list”
Examples:
I want to go to Switzerland and do these things: star-gazing; sight-seeing of the Swiss Alps; strolling in the park; walk around the old museums; and eat delicious Swiss foods.
This is my possible route when I travel to Europe: Switzerland, Paris, Belgium; Italy, Switzerland, France; Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden.
Take note: In the first sentence, the conjunction “and” was used which indicates as the last sentence. However, the last sentence “and” was not used, because it is just used as a choice.
3. The Conjunctive Verbs (nevertheless, also, therefore, moreover, etc.) are present
Examples:
The Aurora Borealis in Europe is so beautiful; however, I don’t have a budget yet to witness it.
Walking in the park is romantic; also, eating dinner with someone you love.
The results are excellent; therefore, the test was conducted properly.
A semicolon is somewhat like a comma, but it is just shared between independent clauses. So, no to “semicolon traumas” anymore; therefore, the author would like to congratulate you in advance for your future professional-like works!
