Use semicolons and commas to separate clauses
Key Notes :
1. Understanding Clauses
- Independent Clause: A group of words that can stand alone as a sentence (e.g., “I enjoy reading”).
- Dependent Clause: A group of words that cannot stand alone and needs an independent clause (e.g., “because I find it interesting”).
2. Using Semicolons (;)
- Separating Independent Clauses: Use a semicolon to connect two closely related independent clauses without a conjunction (e.g., “I have a big exam tomorrow; I can’t go out tonight.”).
- Before Conjunctive Adverbs: Place a semicolon before a conjunctive adverb when it connects two independent clauses (e.g., “I wanted to go for a walk; however, it started raining.”).
3. Using Commas (,)
- Before Coordinating Conjunctions: Use a comma before conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when connecting two independent clauses (e.g., “I wanted to go for a swim, but it was too cold.”).
- After Introductory Clauses: Place a comma after an introductory dependent clause (e.g., “After the movie ended, we went for dinner.”).
- Separating Items in a List: Use commas to separate items in a series (e.g., “I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.”).
4. Examples
- Semicolon Example: “She loves to paint; her brother prefers music.”
- Comma Example: “Although it was raining, we decided to go for a hike.”
5. Practice Sentences
- Combine the following independent clauses using semicolons or commas as appropriate:
- “The sun was shining.” “We decided to have a picnic.”
- “I enjoy basketball.” “My friend prefers soccer.”
Answers:
- “The sun was shining; we decided to have a picnic.”
- “I enjoy basketball, but my friend prefers soccer.”
Summary
- Use semicolons to link related independent clauses and before conjunctive adverbs.
- Use commas to separate independent clauses with conjunctions, after introductory clauses, and in lists.
Let’s practice!
