Can you use therefore after a semicolon

Use a semicolon between independent clauses when the clauses are closely related in meaning and when there is no coordinating conjunction between them. When you come to London, Kristen, you will stay with me; I wouldn't have it otherwise. Use a semicolon between independent clauses linked with a transitional expression. The cook's specialty is broiled salmon; however, tonight it's not available.

That's a difficult question; in other words, I'm not going to answer it. The man pleaded innocent; his face, however, looked as guilty as sin. My plan included taking him to a nice—though not necessarily expensive—dinner; going to the park to look at the stars, which, by the way, are amazing this time of year; and serenading him with my accordion.

Yup, that was one now. When you have a conjunctive adverb linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. Some common conjunctive adverbs include moreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise, and consequently. I needed to go for a walk and get some fresh air; also, I needed to buy milk. These words sometimes show up in other parts of a sentence; therefore, the semicolon rule only applies if it helps the conjunctive adverb join two independent clauses.

See what we did there? This conjunctive adverb rule is similar to the conjunction rule. In both cases, check that the two ideas are independent clauses that could stand on their own as sentences. Emoticons will never replace a solid knowledge of the English language. But they can sure spice it up from time to time. Sam disrespected his mother ; consequently, he will be driving a tractor to school this fall. You, however, are definitely not the person I thought you were. Billy Bob wrecked my new car.

Billy Bob, therefore, is not invited to borrow my speed boat. Tags: adverb comma complete sentences conjunctive conjunctive adverb editing educational english grammar independent independent clauses introductory word parentheses punctuate semicolon semicolon before and a comma after Shea Shea Writing therefore timely tip transition writing.

Previous Previous post: Tip Whether or If? Correct: This assignment is extra credit only; however, we still need to hand it in. Semicolons with independent clauses Use a semicolon to join two related independent clauses in place of a comma and a coordinating conjunction and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet. Correct: John finished all his homework, but Kathleen did not finish hers. You can replace the comma and coordinating conjunction with a semicolon since the connection between the two independent clauses is clear without the coordinating conjunction Correct: John finished all his homework; Kathleen did not finish hers.

Incorrect: Although Nate is a kind employee; that new guy is not. Rule to Remember Use a semicolon between related sentences when the second sentence starts with either a conjunctive adverb or a transitional expression.

Correct: Although Nate is a kind employee, that new guy is not. Semicolons with conjunctive adverbs and transitional expressions Use a semicolon to replace a period between related sentences when the second sentence starts with either a conjunctive adverb or a transitional expression, such as for example, for instance, that is, besides, accordingly, furthermore, otherwise, however, thus, therefore.

Conjunctive Adverb: Correct: Kathleen worked for many hours on all her homework; nevertheless, she was unable to finish all of it. Correct: Harvey is a good driver; moreover, he is a friendly one. Transitional Expression: Correct: Tony finished reading three novels this week; in contrast, Joan finished only one novel. Semicolons used to replace commas Use a semicolon to replace a comma when you use a coordinating conjunction to link independent clauses that already contain commas.

The comma in this case makes these independent clauses difficult to read because of the other commas in the clauses: Incorrect: My dog is sick. She won't eat, run around, or jump, nor will she go for a walk with me.