Table of Contents
What is the purpose of a semicolon in JavaScript?
Semicolons are an essential part of JavaScript code. They are read and used by the compiler to distinguish between separate statements so that statements do not leak into other parts of the code.
Is semicolon required in JavaScript?
This is all possible because JavaScript does not strictly require semicolons. When there is a place where a semicolon is needed, it adds it behind the scenes. This is called Automatic Semicolon Insertion.
Why do authors use semicolons?
Semicolons help you connect closely related ideas when a style mark stronger than a comma is needed. By using semicolons effectively, you can make your writing sound more sophisticated.
Where do you use a semicolon instead of a comma?
Rule: Use the semicolon if you have two independent clauses connected without a conjunction. Example: I have painted the house; I still need to sand the floors. Rule: Also use the semicolon when you already have commas within a sentence for smaller separations, and you need the semicolon to show bigger separations.
What is the impact of a semicolon?
The semicolon forces the reader to make a pause, shorter than you would with a period, but longer than you would for a comma; however, the pause isn’t as abrupt as for a dash. The semicolon pause creates that relationship, close, but not too close, not too abrupt.
Should semicolons be used in fiction?
While a legitimate punctuation mark, the semicolon has been shunned for use in fiction, especially for dialogue. You won’t find me telling writers not to use a semicolon. Punctuation is used for clarity, for emphasis, for rhythm.
When should I use semi colons?
Rules for Using Semicolons A semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought. When a semicolon is used to join two or more ideas (parts) in a sentence, those ideas are then given equal position or rank.
What are the two main uses of a semicolon?
It’s useful to think of the semicolon in terms of the pause it creates: a longer pause than a comma, but shorter than a full stop. A semicolon has two main uses: to join closely related independent clauses, and as a mega-comma of sorts.