How To Use Commas And Semicolons In A List
Let s look at an example as that is the easiest way to understand this use of the semicolon.
How to use commas and semicolons in a list. When to use a dash or dashes the dash or more specifically the em dash is perhaps the most versatile of the punctuation marks. This list would be written like this. In a sentence i would separate these items with commas. Colons can introduce a list while commas are used to separate items in a list. Now look at this list.
We would recommend that commas be used rather than semicolons to separate the items in this list because the items themselves do not contain commas. Comma use a comma after the first independent clause when you link two independent clauses with one of the following coordinating conjunctions. For example this summary could say semicolons are useful. Semicolons help divide listed items that each contain commas. Depending on the circumstances one of two different punctuation marks can be used between the independent clauses in a compound sentence.
Semicolons are used to join two independent clauses or two complete thoughts that could stand alone as complete sentences. John simon and toby. You will need to bring the following. Now suppose that the three items i want to list are described in phrases that already contain some commas. A comma or a semicolon.
However like the semicolon it is underutilized in most kinds of writing. Colons are used in sentences to show that something is following like a quotation example or list. I bought apples grapes and pears. They show that clauses are related in meaning. Place a comma between each item in the list unless you are writing in associated press style.
She likes chocolate vanilla strawberry and pistachio ice cream. To help separate items in a list when some of those items already contain commas. Using only commas it is unclear what items are being listed exactly. Semicolons separate independent clauses that are related in meaning and they separate items in a list when those items themselves are long or include commas. Look at this list.