What’s up with the semicolon?

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The semicolon is one of the most misunderstood and underappreciated punctuations.

This famous quote from Kurt Vonnegut might have something to do with it:

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On the other hand, standardized tests (especially the ACT and SAT) insist that you know how to use a semicolon properly. Many esteemed newspaper editors also endorse the semicolon.

Kurt Vonnegut’s diatribe notwithstanding, let’s examine what a semicolon is and does:

In other words, a semicolon combines two sentences together, and in doing so, connects their ideas more closely.

Therefore, there is one important caveat to consider when using a semicolon as a period:

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In other words, a semicolon can prevent this: I’ve seen Taylor Swift perform in Austin, TX, Chicago, IL, Boston, MA, and San Diego, CA. #CommaOverdose

It is possible to overuse semicolons; combining sentences in close proximity with semicolons can make your writing seem endless; therefore, use semicolons when they’re needed (and effective). #SeeWhatWeDidThere 😏

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