The colon and the semi colon, oh how I wish I knew what you were all about?
I studied English to A level but I don't ever remember being taught what they were for or where to use them.
Now that I am of an age where I don't mind admitting when I don't know something I'm admitting it. There, I've said it, I don't know what they are for.
Can anyone help me please?
6 comments:
I have to do this, as I LOVE semi-colons and am quite fond of colons!
Colons: example would be "he kept numerous animals: a giraffe, a rat, a tiger and a beetle." They can precede a list or elaboration of something from the first part of the sentence; or in fact, as I used, above, after the word "colons".
Semi-colons: they are a half stop rather than a full stop. They provide a break in a sentence, halfway between a comma and a full stop. Very useful; I couldn't manage without them!
I'm not sure this is how an English teacher would explain them, but hope it helps (I've just come back from the pub...)
I do highly recommend Lynne Truss's classic book Eats, Shoots and Leaves. It's a thoroughly entertaining exposition (and defence of) punctuation.
Good luck!
Thanks Frances. I'm not sure I understand it full yet as drink has been taken at this end too but I'm sure it will all be clear in the morning.
Thanks again.
I'm never 100% sure about their use, but now I feel more confident thanks to Frances :-) x
You and me both Teresa
I will endorse what Frances says and recommend Eats, Shoots & Leaves by Lynne Truss. That's where I learned to use punctuation properly.
I'll look out for it Capt.
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