Semicolons with Independent Clauses
Jared Aragona
Semicolons with independent clauses: Use a semicolon to separate closely related independent clauses.
The desire to major in engineering did not occur only with Xavier, it also ran across Amy’s mind.
(Incorrect) – This is a comma-splice run-on.
The desire to major in engineering did not occur only with Xavier. It also ran across Amy’s mind.
(Ok) – A period works, but a hard break may not be necessary.
The desire to major in engineering did not occur only with Xavier. It also ran across Amy’s mind.
(Correct) – A semicolon is halfway between, still part of the same sentence.
When I was a child, there was only one path forward for students interested in the sciences, now there are several.
(Incorrect) – This is a comma-splice run-on.
When I was a child, there was only one path forward for students interested in the sciences. Now there are several.
(Ok) – A period works, but a hard break may not be necessary.
When I was a child, there was only one path forward for students interested in the sciences; now there are several.
(Correct) – A semicolon is halfway between, still part of the same sentence.
The MLCKRB (Master List Code Key and Rule Book): An English Grammar & Style Handbook by Jared Aragona, CC BY 4.0