Semicolons and Colons
v Use a semicolon to join the independent clauses of a compound sentence when a coordinating conjunction, such as and, or, nor, or but is NOT used.
Ø Many people visit the small towns of New England; they often look for antiques and collectibles.
v Use a semicolon to join parts of a compound sentence when the main clauses are long and are separated by commas. Semicolons are used even when a coordinating conjunction is present.
Ø Antiques are highly favored by my mother, my aunts, and my cousin; but, I have yet to acquire that taste.
v Use a semicolon to separate main clauses joined by a conjunctive adverb. The conjunctive adverbs are consequently, furthermore, however, moreover, nevertheless, or therefore. Remember to use a comma after the conjunctive adverb.
Ø Many antiques are in poor condition; however, when you find one that is in great condition, it’s usually very valuable.
v Use a colon to introduce a list of items at the end of a sentence. Remember to use phrases such as these, the following, or as follows to show that the list follows. However, colons are not used immediately after prepositions or verbs.
Ø When redecorating my downstairs, I searched for the following: a secretary desk, old luggage trunks, metal produce signs, and antique picture frames.
Ø Some antiques have to be stripped, sanded, and stained in order to be restored.
v Use a colon in a sentence before a statement that clarifies the previous statement.
Ø I took plenty of pictures after refurbishing the antique frames: I felt as if I had accomplished something grand.
v Use a colon when writing the time of day. Colons are used to separate the hour, minutes, and seconds.
Ø We left at 7:30 in the morning to go antique shopping.
v Use a colon after the salutation of a business letter.
Ø Dear Mr. Devonshire:
Ø Dear Sir or Madam:
v Use a colon between chapter and verses when referencing the Bible.
Ø John 3:16
v Use a colon between titles and subtitles.
Ø Antiques: A How-To Guide
