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Spelling, grammar and punctuation thread
I don't think we have a thread for typos yet, do we? We had one in the old game...

Got some staff applications back today and noticed this:



It's a tiny thing, but it should be a semicolon rather than a colon.

We're going for realism and how many scouts would know the difference? I'm impressed when mine manage the modern technology of an email.

I don't agree with FS in his post above.

Then you don't know how to use colons and semicolons correctly; it's something you really ought to learn to do.

Please explain why then.

A colon is wrong in this case. I'm not sure whether it should be a semi-colon, the only alternatives would be a comma or a full stop and a new sentence. But I'm incliined to agree that FS is correct in both instances.

Alternatively reword it by inserting the word "as".

Using the colon is simply wrong.

My preferences would be:

1. We have received some applications for the position of assistant manager. I would recommend that you review them as soon as possible; they will not wait around forever.

2. We have received some applications for the position of assistant manager. I would recommend that you review them as soon as possible as they will not wait around forever.

3. We have received some applications for the position of assistant manager. I would recommend that you review them as soon as possible. They will not wait around forever.

I'm not so sure. I'd say that the semi colon would be the more usual form of punctuation in this case. However, could the clause after the colon be considered as explaining the first clause before the colon?

Apparently you can use a colon between two independent clauses when the second explains or amplifies the first.

At least that adds to the debate CS. We do love a good debate over FS's "tiny thing".

In this case I don't believe that fits the criterion for the correct usage of a colon as an explanation or amplification, it's certainly stretching it.

Use a semi-colon when it could easily be 2 independent sentences that can be linked by a conjunction. Use a colon when there's no obvious conjunction to link them. For example:

Colon: a punctuation mark used to introduce a list of items, or an explanation or a definition of something.

That's correct, and so that's why a colon has been used.

All right, stripey. If you're determined to stick with your incorrect punctuation, fine. I suppose we'll move on.

You lost me at "Grammar". I know what a colon is and therefore i think i'd never want a semi

Some threads are getting interesting and then ozzy's gone and wrecked 'em.

In any event, my staff don't speak perfect English.

Perhaps we should expect some emails with defective English and punctuation.

Carry on digging that hole, FS.

I don't follow. I thought I said we'll move on? Why have a pop at me days after the discussion finished?

Unnecessary.

Because I had been on a short holiday, seeing as you are asking.

And how is life in the slammer these days?

Blissful.