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Unit 16Unit 16

SEMICOLONSSEMICOLONS

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The Use of Semicolons There are four ways to use semicolons

1. A semicolon is used to separate two closely related independent clauses.

2. A semicolon is used to separate two independent clauses joined by a conjunctive adverb.

3. A semicolon is used to separate items in a series if the items have commas inside.

4. A semicolon is used to separate independent clauses joined with a coordinating conjunctions if those clauses are lengthy.

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The Examples of Using Semicolons

1. A semicolon is used to separate two closely related independent clauses.

Hand writing is illegible; students should computerize their work.

Soma doesn’t just love Nina; he takes pity on her

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The Examples of Using Semicolons

2. A semicolon is used to separate two independent clauses joined by a conjunctive adverb .We visited seven countries; nevertheless, we miss some historical sites.

We missed 5 classes; therefore, we have to do supplementary exam.

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The Examples of Using Semicolons

3. A semicolon is used to separate items in a series if the items have commas inside.

My sister had a profitable summer: by moving the lawn, she earns $125; by washing cars, $85; and by walking the neighbor’s dogs, $110.

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The Examples of Using Semicolons

4. A semicolon is used to separate independent clauses joined with a coordinating conjunctions if those clauses are lengthy.

By the late afternoon, having tried on every pair of the black checked pans in the mall, Marsha was tired and cranky; but she still had not found what she needed to complete her new outfit.

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