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samy4408
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can someone tell me what is the meaning of the horizontal line in the sentence ?
thanks .
What is the Purpose of a Semicolon in a Sentence?
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SUMMARY
The discussion centers on the correct usage of semicolons and em-dashes in sentence structure. Participants clarify that semicolons connect related independent clauses, while em-dashes serve to separate ideas or clauses for clarity. The importance of using these punctuation marks correctly is emphasized to avoid confusion, especially in international forums. References to authoritative sources, such as MasterClass, provide additional validation for the rules discussed.
PREREQUISITES- Understanding of independent and subordinate clauses
- Familiarity with punctuation marks, specifically semicolons and em-dashes
- Basic grammar rules regarding sentence structure
- Knowledge of clarity in written communication
- Research the rules for using semicolons in complex sentences
- Explore the function and usage of em-dashes in writing
- Study the differences between independent and subordinate clauses
- Review resources on enhancing clarity in written communication
Writers, editors, students, and anyone looking to improve their understanding of punctuation and sentence structure will benefit from this discussion.
can someone tell me what is the meaning of the horizontal line in the sentence ?
thanks .
- #2
Drakkith
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It's just connecting the two ideas together. It's not a very well written sentence and is very awkward to read. If anything it reads like someone was transcribing what someone else was saying and the speaker messed up and had to correct themselves. "Light is something which enters the eye." Oh, I messed that up. Let me correct it real quick. "Which bounces off objects into the eye."
- #3
DrClaude
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The symbol is called an "em-dash." See the following link for an explanation of its usage:
https://www.thesaurus.com/e/grammar/em-dash/
https://www.thesaurus.com/e/grammar/em-dash/
- #4
Klystron
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I used to use double dashes to separate clauses and descriptors in sentences but largely stopped using them to avoid confusion, particularly on international forums like PF. I also use fewer semicolons for the same reason.
I was taught to separate subordinate clauses from sentence body with a semicolon, or double dash, when the clause already contained items separated by commas, for clarity; to reduce, not increase, confusion.
I was taught to separate subordinate clauses from sentence body with a semicolon, or double dash, when the clause already contained items separated by commas, for clarity; to reduce, not increase, confusion.
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berkeman
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Klystron said:I used to use double dashes to separate clauses and descriptors in sentences but largely stopped using them to avoid confusion, particularly on international forums like PF; I also use fewer semicolons for the same reason.
I was taught to separate subordinate clauses from sentence body with a semicolon, or double dash, when the clause already contained items separated by commas, for clarity to reduce, not increase, confusion.
There, I fixed it for you.
(doesn't the "subordinate clause" after the semicolon need to be a stand-alone sentence in its own right? I guess I need to review that rule. Back in a bit...)
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berkeman
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Klystron
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Correction noted. The masterclass article verifies my use of semicolon with lists of items separated by commas; clauses separated by semicolons must be independent. TILberkeman said:
