comma or semicolon [c. splice]: when not occupied, this includes

R

rln1001

New Member
England, English
Hi guys,

Not sure whether I should be using a semi-colon or a comma in this sentence - which is better?

remember rooms must be locked when not occupied; this includes during breaks

remember rooms must be locked when not occupied, this includes during breaks

Some explanation of why one is better than the other would be very useful too!

Thanks
 
    • rln1001 said:
    Hi guys,

    Not sure whether I should be using a semi-colon or a comma in this sentence - which is better?

    remember rooms must be locked when not occupied; this includes during breaks

    remember rooms must be locked when not occupied, this includes during breaks

    Some explanation of why one is better than the other would be very useful too!

    Thanks
    Click to expand...

    Welcome to Word Reference, rin1001. :)

    I would use a semi-colon.

    The chief point in this sentence is to remember that rooms must be locked when not occupied.

    The longer pause offered by a semi-colon gives the reader time to absorb this important rule. He can then go on to read - "this includes during breaks."

    It could actually be written as two sentences.

    Remember rooms must be locked when not occupied. This includes during breaks.

    Therefore, I would use a semi-colon - much closer to a full stop than a comma.

    Regards,
    LRV
     
    I would also put a comma after remember.
    What, I wondered, are remember rooms?

    Remember, rooms must be locked when not occupied.

    If they can't work out what "not occupied" means, then add a parenthetical comment.
    Remember, rooms must be locked when not occupied (this includes during breaks).
     
    i would put a semicolon, because they are two separate independent thoughts/clauses. if you use a comma, it becomes a run-on sentence.
     
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