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Punctuation 5. Semi-Colons. Semi-colons. They are part comma, part full stop. They are used instead of a full stop to separate sentences that are very closely related to one another. The semi-colon has three specific functions. Using Semi-Colons. Semi-colons for balance
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Punctuation 5 Semi-Colons
Semi-colons • They are part comma, part full stop. • They are used instead of a full stop to separate sentences that are very closely related to one another. • The semi-colon has three specific functions.
Using Semi-Colons • Semi-colons for balance • Semi-colons can join together sentences which are closely related and of equal weight. These two sentences deal with the same subject yet could stand by themselves. • You can pretend to be serious; you cannot pretend to be witty. • Squash is a game for young men; many older men prefer golf. • Semi-colons for contrast • Semi-colons can sharpened a contrast when the two halves of a sentence are similar in structure but opposite in meaning. • In the classroom, Charles struggled; on the sportsfield, he was outstanding. • I enjoy swimming; my sister hates it.
Using Semi-Colons 3. Semi-colons in lists. • Semi-colons can be used instead of a comma to break up lists of more than one word • Before the picnic, we packed everything, including a box for the plates and cutlery; cartons of sandwiches; bottles of soft drink; and napkins.