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How to use a semicolon - Emma Bryce

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TEDEd Animation

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It may seem like the semicolon is struggling with an identity crisis. It looks like a comma crossed with a period. Maybe that’s why we toss these punctuation marks around like grammatical confetti; we’re confused about how to use them properly. Emma Bryce clarifies best practices for the semi-confusing semicolon.

Which of these is better, and why do you think so? A. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenery in Paris. The Eiffel Tower is especially beautiful. B. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenery in Paris; The Eiffel Tower is especially beautiful.

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About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Emma Bryce
  • Animator Henry Chung, Mark Storer, Noel Wong
  • Composer Tom Jordan
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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