Semi-colons - Learning English

Semi-colons - Learning English

Semi-colons: If two independent clauses are closely related, you can join the clauses with a semi-colon rather than a comma and coordinating conjunction. You must be be sure, however, that independent clauses are on both sides of the semi-colon.

• Frank asked Sally out for a date that night she accepted enthusiastically.
• Correction: Frank asked Sally out for a date that night; she accepted enthusiastically.
• Sally didn't know what to wear all, her clothes were torn and ratty.
• Correction: Sally didn't know what to wear; all her clothes were torn and ratty.

Practice with semicolons