"Do not use semicolons," wrote Kurt Vonnegut, who averaged fewer than 30 a novel (about one every 10 pages). "All they do is show you've been to college." A study suggests UK authors are taking Vonnegut's advice to heart; the semicolon seems to be in terminal decline, with its usage in English books plummeting by almost half in two decades - from one appearing in every 205 words in 2000 to one use in every 390 words today.
Related ...
When to Use a Semicolon, With Examples
www.grammarly.com
...
- - - A semicolon is a punctuation mark (;) used to connect closely two related independent clauses in a single sentence when discussing the same topic or contrasting two similar ideas.
- - - The connection between the two independent clauses should always be apparent without a coordinating conjunction like and. Example: I have a big presentation tomorrow; I need to prepare my notes tonight.
- - - Use semicolons before common conjunctive adverbs like moreover, nevertheless, and however.
- - - Semicolons can divide items within lists if they are long or contain internal punctuation, helping readers keep track of the divisions between them.
- - - Semicolons provide a stronger pause than a comma and a softer transition than a period.
Understanding when to use semicolons is vital for clear writing and enhancing sentence flow. Good writing demands attention to detail; recognizing the right place for a semicolon exemplifies this. Here, we'll explain what you need to know about semicolons and their role in punctuation, including rules and examples for using them correctly. ...
... connection between the two independent clauses should always be apparent without a coordinating conjunction ...
Wow, no wonder a semicolons seem to be used so infrequently.
Drudge Retort Headlines
'This Isn't a Christian Nation' (105 comments)
US Only Country Facing Tourism Decline (54 comments)
Don't call it 'Alligator Alcatraz,' Call it a Concentration Camp (31 comments)
GOP Rep Torched after Hospital in his District Shuts Down (28 comments)
RFK's Proposal to Let Bird Flu Spread Through Poultry Could Set Us Up for a Pandemic, Experts Warn (21 comments)
Trump Admin has Begun Garnishing Wages of Student Loan Borrowers in Default (19 comments)
UK: Ozzy Osbourne Sings Final Concert with Black Sabbath (18 comments)
US Trade Deficit Widens in May on Weak Exports (18 comments)
Social Security Administration Sends Misleading Email (18 comments)
Trump says he Plans to Host UFC Fight at the White House (16 comments)