As far as I understand, you use a semi-colon to separate main clauses joined by conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, moreover, nevertheless, then, thus). And, when you use a conjunctive adverb, put a semicolon (;) before it and a comma (,) after it.
Example, using however:
Ernest Hemingway was a master of style; however, opinions about his work vary widely.
BUT using then, referring to sequencing, what is the proper usage?
Example:
He went to the store. Then he went home.
The above explanation would say that I need a semicolon between the sentences and a comma after then. And I have found many examples of this.
He went to the store; then, he went home.
But, is it a fast rule when you use then (I've read that "then" may not always be a conjunctive adverb) or can you just use a period? Do you always need the comma after, and can you reverse it?
He went to the store; then, he went home.
He went to the store; then he went home.
He went to the store; he then went home. (no comma after "then")
He went to the store. he then went home. (no semicolon between sentences)
I generally use He then as I feel it sounds better, but I'm confused as to whether that is grammatically correct and how to properly punctuate it. I can't find a definitive examples sentences.
No comments:
Post a Comment