Why is this sentence correct?

Question

Hi,

As per e-gmat, the below sentence is alright:-

Bamboo thrives in steamy areas; nevertheless its products require a lot of treatment to withstand sunshine.

Now, as per my knowledge, a semicolon (;) connects 2 independent clauses that can  stand on their own and make sense individually . However, I don't think the clause "nevertheless its products require a lot of treatment to withstand sunshine." can make sense individually because of the presence of "nevertheless".

Can someone please explain why this sentence is alright?

Also, may I know whether the sentence "Bamboo thrives in steamy areas, nevertheless, its products require a lot of treatment to withstand sunshine." would also be considered alright?

Thanks!

ARIEN3228 · Answer

Rules for Using Semicolons

1) 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.

Some people write with a word processor; others write with a pen or pencil.

2) Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases.

However they choose to write, people are allowed to make their own decisions; as a result, many people swear by their writing methods.

3)Use a semicolon between items in a list or series if any of the items contain commas.

There are basically two ways to write: with a pen or pencil, which is inexpensive and easily accessible; or by computer and printer, which is more expensive but quick and neat.

4)Use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction if the clauses are already punctuated with commas or if the clauses are lengthy.

Some people write with a word processor, tablet, or a even a phone; but others, for different reasons, choose to write with a pen or pencil.

Now coming to the sentence you quoted

Bamboo thrives in steamy areas; nevertheless its products require a lot of treatment to withstand sunshine.

This sentence falls under category two.

Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases.

nevertheless  being the transitional phrase.

Hope this helps.

EducationAisle · Answer

Hi  willacethis , the above sentence would be a  run-on  sentence and hence  incorrect .

It's not just  nevertheless ; there are many other similar words that can start an Independent clause (you might just want to memorize them, if it bothers you too much):  instead, moreover, likewise, therefore, however  and  otherwise .

p.s. Our book    EducationAisle Sentence Correction Nirvana    discusses  this aspect of "Independent clauses" . Have attached the corresponding section of the book, for your reference.

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Why is this sentence correct?

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