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In this week's Grammar Tip, we explore the effective use of conjunctions and semicolons to enhance your writing clarity. Learn about the importance of placing commas before conjunctions in independent clauses, exemplified by the FANBOYS (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Delve into the correct usage of semicolons to connect independent clauses without an incorrect comma. Discover how to use conjunctive adverbs for variety in your writing. These tips will streamline your sentences and improve overall coherence.
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Grammar Tip of the Week! Week Three Conjunctions and Semicolons (from Strunk and White’s Elements of Style)
Comma + Conjunction • An independent clause is a “simple sentence,” containing just a subject and a verb. • Conjunctions: F.A.N.B.O.Y.S • for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so • Always place a comma before a conjunction introducing an independent clause. • It is nearly half past five, andwe cannot reach town before dark. • Stevenson’s romances are entertaining, for they are full of exciting adventures.
Semicolon • Do not join independent clauses with a comma. • The correct punctuation is a semicolon. • It is nearly half past five; we cannot reach town before dark. • Stevenson’s romances are entertaining; they are full of exciting adventures. • Equally Correct: • It is nearly half past five. We cannot reach town before dark.
Which is the Most Efficient? • Consider the three examples: • It is half past five. We cannot reach the town before dark. • It is nearly half past five, and we cannot reach the town before dark. • It is nearly half past five; we cannot reach the town before dark. • This simple method is useful! Use it when writing of things of cause and consequence!
Adverbs • The bizarre nature of adverbs is a conversation for another time… • For Now: How? In What Way? To What Extent? • Adverbs generally attempt to answer these questions • Examples: • The dog howledconstantly during the night. • I amevidently wrong in this matter.
Conjunctive Adverbs • A semicolon and a comma are used together when a conjunctive adverb separates two independent clauses. • This is a great way to vary your language! • Examples: • I live; furthermore, I’ll die. • I wanted to meet up with you; however, I was delayed at work. • These things actually happened; otherwise, I wouldn’t have sworn to witnessing them!
Partial List of Conjunctive Adverbs • According • Additionally • Besides • Consequently • Finally • Furthermore • Meanwhile • Namely • Equally • Hence • However • In addition • In comparison • Instead • Likewise • Nevertheless • Nonetheless • Otherwise • Similarly • Still • Subsequently • Therefore