Lesson 381

Mechanics - Punctuation - Semicolons

Use a semicolon between two independent clausesA clause is a group of words having a subject and a verb. An independent clause can stand alone as a sentence.
Source: Lesson 246 of a compound sentenceA compound sentence combines two or more independent clauses.
Source: Lesson 294 when they are not joined by a co-ordinateEqual in rank or importance. conjunctionA conjunction is a word that joins other words, phrases (groups of words), or clauses (groups of words with a subjects and verb).  Source: Lesson 76.

Example:
There was a sudden silence; everyone was stunned by the outcome.

Instructions: Place semicolons where they are needed in the following sentences.

1. Carl is tall his brother is short.

2. He knocked several times no one came to the door.

3. The siren blew loudly I rushed to the window the police raced pass as I looked out.

4. I waited several hours for you you did not return I became concerned.

5. My sister loves mysteries my brother likes technical manuals.