Pattern #1: Compound Sentence:

Semicolon, No Conjunction

(two short, related sentences now joined)

S______V ; S______V .

 When to use this pattern: 

This pattern helps you join two short, simple sentences having two closely related ideas. Simply use a semicolon instead of a conjunction with a comma. The graphic illustration in the box above and examples below show only two clauses; you may or course, have three or more.

 When to use this pattern:

 And remember the definition of a complete clause: a subject—verb combination that makes a full statement. In other words, an independent clause must have a finite verb; therefore look for one that suggests completed action on each side of the semicolon. Remember that what precedes and what follows the semicolon must be capable of standing alone.

This is a fragment:

The reason for the loss in yardage being the broken shoe-string on the left guard’s shoe. 

Being is the wrong verb form; change it to was and make a sentence. 

This is another fragment: 

Which was the only explanation that he could give at that moment. This fragment is a dependent clause, in spite of the subject—verb combinations (which was and he could give), because of the subordinating word (in this case, a relative pronoun) at the beginning.

Remember this equation: 

BecauseIfWhenAfter + a subject—verb = a fragment

(plus) combination (equals) every time.And other such subordinating words

These are common semicolon errors: 

For example; …Because the snow was deep and the temperature below zero; …The work having been finished by five o’clock ; …. These three errors can be corrected thus:For example, ….Because the snow was deep, the temperature fell below zero.The work was finished by five o’clock. In short, don’t confuse commas and semicolons.

When to use this pattern 

This pattern will help you when you’ve talked about a number of similar ideas in several sentences. You combine these ideas into a single, more powerful sentence that conveys the information you’ve previously expressed in three or four sentences. During revision you should look for paragraphs with too many short sentences with parallel ideas and ask yourself, “Can I combine these sentences to give my message a more forceful impact?”

 

When to use this pattern 

EXAMPLES:Caesar, try on this toga; it seems to be your sizeHard work is only one side of the equation; talent is the other.Some people dream of being something; others stay awake and are.Human beings are related to the monkey; only a monkey, however would ever admit the relationship. 

 VARIATIONS: Pattern 1aThe first variation, PATTERN 1a, involves the use of conjunctive adverbs (connectors) such as however, hence, therefore, thus, then, moreover, nevertheless, likewise, consequently, and accordingly.The use of a comma after the connector is optional.

 S V ; however, S V

 Examples:

David had worked in the steaming jungle for two years without leave; hence he was tire almost beyond endurance.

The gadget won’t work; therefore there is no sense in buying it.

 The use of a coordinating conjunction such as and, or, for, but, nor, yet, or so.

 Example: It was snowing outside, and in the building Harold felt safe; he dreaded leaving his shelter for the long dangerous trip home.

 

 The third variation pattern is using a series of semicolons. Example: North bid one club; East passed; South bid one spade; West doubled.

ExerciseWrite 3 sentences using a semicolon.