How do you usually punctuate conjunctive adverbs?
Conjunctive adverbs are adverbs that act as conjunctions to link two independent clauses together. Unlike traditional conjunctions, conjunctive adverbs usually require particular punctuation.
Semicolon and Comma
When the conjunctive adverb links two independent clauses, the conjunctive adverb is preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma. The semicolon links the two clauses, and the comma separates the conjunction from the second independent clause. For example:
- It rained; consequently, we saw many puddles while we walked.
- Her grandmother died; now, she does not want to go to the dance.
The two sentences stand alone, but the conjunctive adverb helps to demonstrate the relationship between the clauses.
Em dash or Period
A conjunctive adverb can still link two clauses if an em dash (—), a long hyphen, or period is used, with either mark taking the place of the semicolon to separate the independent clauses. For example:
- It rained— consequently, we saw many puddles while we walked.
- Her grandmother died. Now, she does not want to go to the dance.
Common Conjunctive Adverbs
accordingly, furthermore, moreover, similarly,
also, hence, namely, still,
anyway, however, nevertheless, then,
besides, incidentally, next, thereafter,
certainly, indeed, nonetheless, therefore,
consequently, instead, now, thus,
finally, likewise, otherwise, undoubtedly,
further, meanwhile.