Use Of Colon And Semicolon In A Sentence

When and How To Use A Colon and A Semi-Colon

The dictionary states that the use of colons and semicolons in a sentence are limited to the introduction of a quotation, example or a list in the case of the former while semicolons are used to bring together two independent idea, or separate out the main clauses in a single sentence that have been joined together by the use of a conjunctive adverb. In an easier method though, here are some examples which can better show how colons and semicolons need to be used in a sentence in a way that makes the sentence itself read better and sound more effective. The examples are:

Examples On How To Use The Right Punctuation Mark

Use of colons can be better understood by looking at the following examples:

·  John had just two choices: to run away or fight

·  He said he already knew who would win the game: The Eagles.”

·  He said, “Remember: two can easily play at that game!”

·  As the bard said: “The world is a stage so try and play your role in it as well as you can.”

Use of semicolons can be better understood by looking at the following examples:

·  I had a huge breakfast; however, I am already feeling hungry again.

·  I really enjoy beef, with Alfredo sauce; pasta, with mushroom sauce; and salads, with a generous topping of French dressing.

·  I told my Dad, “You should stop eating so much food; you will have to go on a diet.”

·  John needs new brakes; otherwise he will never be able to stop his car in time.

With semicolons, there is just one more thing that can be added about them; each part of a sentence separated from the other by using a semicolon is perfectly capable of being a sentence by itself. So now that you know more about these two punctuation marks, use them wisely!

Author Bio

Liam Randall is a linguist enthusiast who loves to write and edit anything he can get his hands on. With a degree in Literature, he is now doing British Assignment Writing for various organisation.