Comma and Semicolon Usage

(LB Brief)

 

                                                Coordinating conjunction

  1.  Independent clause  ,  {for and or so but nor yet} Independent clause.

 

Ex:  The building is finished, but it has not tenants

 

  1. Introductory element, Independent clause.

 

Ex:  Unfortunately, the only tenant pulled out.

 

  1. Independent clause, nonessential element.

 

Ex:  The empty building symbolizes a weak local economy, which affects everyone.

 

  1. Beginning of independent clause, nonessential element , end of independent.

 

Ex:  The primary clause, the decline of local industry, is not news.

 

  1.  . . . item 1 ,  item 2  ,  {and / or} item 3 . . .

 

Ex:  The city needs healthier businesses, new schools, and improved housing.

 

  1. . . . first adjective , second adjective  word modified . . .

 

Ex:  A tall, sleek skyscraper is not needed.

 

  1. Independent clause ; Independent clause

 

Ex:  The side effects are not minor; some leave the patient quite uncomfortable or even ill.

                       

                                              Conjunctive

                                                  Adverb

  1. Independent clause  ; however  ,  Independent clause

Anyway            Meanwhile       

Besides            Moreover

Consequently    Namely

Finally              Otherwise

Furthermore     Still

Hence              Then

Indeed              Therefore

Instead             Thus

 

Ex:  An American immigrant, Levi Strauss, invented blue jeans in the 1860s; eventually, his product clothed working men throughout the West.