Semicolons & Colons Grammar Notes

Semicolons 618.1 To Join Two Independent Clauses Use a semicolon to join two or more closely related independent clauses that are not connected with a coordinating conjunction. Remember: independent clauses can stand alone as a separate sentence. Ex. A heart attack is a medical emergency; immediate care is required.

Semicolons Continued 618.2 With Conjunctive Adverbs A semicolon is used before a conjunctive adverb (with a comma after it) when the word connects two independent clauses in a compound sentence. Common conjunctive adverbs: also, besides, finally, however, indeed, instead, meanwhile, moreover, nevertheless, next, still, then, therefore, and thus. Ex. I know that I need to finish my research for my essay; however, our Internet service is down and the library is closed. 618.3 To Separate Groups That Contain Commas A semicolon is used to separate groups of words that already contain commas. Ex. Every Saturday night my little brother gathers up his things— goggles, showers cap and snorkel; bubble bath, soap, and shampoo; tapes, stereo, and rubber duck—and heads for the tub.

Colons 620.1After a Salutation 620.2 Between Numerals Indicating Time Use a colon after the salutation of a business letter. Ex. Dear Judge Parker: 620.2 Between Numerals Indicating Time Use a colon between the hours, minutes , and seconds of a number indicating time. Ex. 8:30 p.m. 10:24:55 620.3 For Emphasis Use a colon to emphasize a word, a phrase, a clause, or a sentence that explains or adds impact to the main clause. Ex. The newest candidates announced their platforms today: Lower taxes and more efficient services are the consistent themes.

Colons Continued 620.4 To Introduce a Quotation Use a colon to formally introduce a quotation, a sentence, or a question. Ex. Directly a voice in the corner rang out wild and clear: “I’ve got him! I’ve got him!” –Mark Twain, Roughing It 620.6 Between a Title and a Subtitle Use a colon to distinguish between a title and a subtitle, volume and page, and chapter and verse in literature. Ex. Psalm 23:1-6

Colons Continued 620.5 To Introduce a List A colon is used to introduce a list. Ex. I got all the proper equipment: scissors, a bucket of water to keep things clean, some cotton for the stuffing, and needle and thread to sew it up. –Joan Baez, Daybreak Note: Do not use a colon between a verb and its object or complement, or between a preposition and its object. Incorrect: Min has (verb): a snowmobile, an ATV, and a canoe. Correct: Min has plenty of toys: a snowmobile, an ATV, and a canoe. Incorrect: I watch a TV show about:(preposition): cooking wild game. Correct: I watch a TV show about a new subject: cooking wild game.