English Grammar Blog
English Punctuation
If you would like to write a good report for school, or need to make a polished business document, you need a proper grasp of punctuation. Here are some English punctuation marks and some tips on how to use them.
The Period, Exclamation Mark, and Question Mark
A period, one of the most common punctuation marks, shows the end of a statement. The question mark and exclamation point are also used at the end of a statement, and suggests an interrogatory sentence and emphasizes a statement, respectively.
The Comma, Colon, and Semicolon
A comma shows a pause or break in a statement, with appositives which add data for the subject, for denoting a series of items, and for separating introductory phrases, adjectives, and independent clauses. It is also used to make a direct address, utilized after a name, and separate direct quotes.
A semicolon detaches two independent but related clauses. It is best to a period instead of a semicolon if two phrases are too complex or wordy. You can also employ a semicolon to separate a series of items if these are complex, including clauses that have commas. A colon has numerous uses, such as introducing a list of items. Avoid using a colon before items in a regular series.
Hyphen vs. Dash
The hyphen was typically used in the era of typewriters, when a long word reached the margin near the edge of a page. Hyphens are still used to append prefixes to words, however, not all words with prefixes require this punctuation mark. Compound words made from two separate ones need a hyphen, and so do numbers that are written as words. Use a hyphen in such a case if the number is below one hundred. For numbers beyond a hundred, use a hyphen between all words in the number if they are used as adjectives.
The dash is utilized when a short interruption occurs in a sentence, for an abrupt change in idea, additional comments, or an emphatic qualification. Dashes may also be used to add further clarification, such as with a statement within parenthesis. Remember that the sentence should still have a natural flow, and a disjointed statement may need revision regarding use of the punctuation.
Double and Single Quotation Marks
The double quote comprises a direct quote from any literature, a song, or a person. The apostrophe or single quote can be used before the letter S to show possession. With a singular noun, and after the letter for a plural noun. One can also combine two words to become a contraction with the apostrophe. A single quote can be used within double quotes to show a quotation stated by another or a quote inside a quote.
The proper use of punctuation marks can help avoid miscommunication, and help you clearly and precisely show your ideas by way of the written word.
