Ahh, the semicolon. For many, the proper use of semicolon check poses a massive problem in the realm of writing. Both professional writers and students alike find it difficult to know exactly when and where they should use it in content. That’s why a comma and semicolon checker is important!
Indeed, the primary reason it poses such a puzzle for writers is that it is a close relative of the comma and semicolon.
Nevertheless, we will begin by definitions in this case.
What Is a Semicolon?
According to the online dictionary, a semicolon is a punctuation mark usually placed in between clauses of a sentence to indicate a pause.
Hmm… let’s stop right there. Doesn’t this sound exactly like a comma? Well, the difference is that a semicolon usually has a longer pause as compared to a comma.
Remember this, because it will shed light on exactly how a semicolon is used in a sentence.
Why Do So Many Writers Have a Difficult Time with a Semicolon?
It’s no secret that a ton of students and writers find using the semi-colon a hefty task. That’s why a proper punctuation check is extremely important!
In fact, here are some of the reasons why it gives many a writer a headache!
- Poor Understanding of the Semicolon: If you’re not in the field of literature, it can be difficult to understand just how the semicolon is used. In fact, some of the basic knowledge of punctuation marks we learned way back in grade school could have already escaped us by now! This is a massive problem for many students and aspiring writers today.
- Dependent Clauses: Let’s also not forget the confusion that comes with dependent clauses and independent clauses when they are used in sentences. Just a refresher, a dependent clause is a phrase that does not have a subject. This means that it cannot serve as a complete sentence on its own.
For example, ‘the car that was painted yellow…” is a dependent clause because it makes you ask, what has it done? What’s next? Why?
Alternatively, an independent clause is one that can stand on its own in a sentence. For example, “the car is yellow…” this phrase is complete because it has a subject, and, in simple terms, is not hanging.
Understanding when two bring in a semicolon between these types of clauses can be quite difficult.
Which brings us to the most important question….
When Do We Use Semicolons With Different Clauses in a Sentence?
Very good question. Indeed, there are rules to the game when it comes to how to use semicolon correctly.
- Rule 1
The golden rule is that semicolons are used mainly between the clauses. Unlike their cousin, the comma, which can be used in clauses, lists, etc.
- Rule 2
Before we continue, avoid this caveat. The common mistake of use of colon vs semicolon in a sentence. For example:
- Incorrect: I have one option; to look for her
- Correct: I have one option: to look for her
- Rule 3
A period can be substituted for a semicolon in the event that the writer wishes to reduce the pause between two sentences following each other. For example:
- Give me a call tomorrow. I will give you a definitive answer.
- Give me a call tomorrow; I will give you a definitive answer.
- Rule 4
By all means, steer clear from using a semicolon whenever a semicolon dependent clause precedes an independent clause. For example:
- Incorrect: Despite trying their hardest; they failed
- Correct: Despite trying their hardest, they failed.
- Rule 5
Semicolons can also be used in instances where the words that follow certain conjunctions. For example:
- Bring as many items as you would like; namely,
the sleeping bag and the matchsticks would be ideal!
Using a Comma and Semicolon Checker Saves You From All This!
Wow! These are a lot of rules, right? It can be quite tough to be able to check each and every rule when using a semicolon in your content. Instead, you can use an automatic punctuation checker.
As a matter of fact, all you have to do is copy your content, and paste it into the semicolon checker box.
The checker’s algorithm will automatically review the content and flag any instances of semicolon check being wrongly used.
Additionally, the grammar checker will flag any issues of semicolons that have been wrongly used in the content.
10 Amazing Features of Using a Semicolon Checker
Here are 10 outstanding features that you will benefit from using a semicolon checker
- 24 hour Online Assistance: The service comes with 24-hour online assistance, meaning you can use the semicolon checker any time of the day!
- High Accuracy in Proofreading: The service is highly sensitive to any grammatical errors and will immediately flag any it comes across.
- Provides Assistance With Correction: Apart from showcasing the errors, the service also provides you with brief explanations on why there is an error in a particular area
- Comes with Added plagiarism Detector: Worried about plagiarism in your paper? Well, you can highlight any sections of your content that could be plagiarized, and rectify them.
- Receive Instant Assistance: The service works instantly once you access it. There are no wait-times or hidden subscriptions.
- Easily Accessible: With a basic internet connection, you can easily access the service to rectify any issues.
- Online: Additionally, you don’t have to download the service because you can proofread online with the service’s main website.
- Can Be Used For Any Type of Writing Content: Whether you’re writing a dissertation, an article, a blog, or a novel, the service is ideal for ensuring your content has the correct grammatical flow to it. It is the ideal sentence fixer!
- Highly Adaptive to the English Language: The service is updated regularly to any changes in the English language.
- Free: Last but not least, the service is free! That’s right, no worrying about coughing up some extra doh or anything!
And there you have it! Feel free to visit our website and access our professional comma and semicolon checker free of charge for all your content needs!
