Here's why:
* Semicolons connect two closely related independent clauses. They indicate a stronger connection than a comma but not as strong as a period.
* Run-on sentences occur when two or more independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions.
Here's how to fix run-on sentences:
1. Use a period: The simplest solution, separating the independent clauses into separate sentences.
2. Use a comma and a coordinating conjunction: Use "and," "but," "or," "nor," "for," "so," or "yet" to connect the clauses.
3. Use a semicolon: Only when the clauses are very closely related in meaning.
4. Use a colon: To introduce a list, explanation, or example.
Example:
Run-on sentence: The dog barked loudly at the mailman he didn't like strangers.
Corrected sentences:
* Period: The dog barked loudly at the mailman. He didn't like strangers.
* Comma and conjunction: The dog barked loudly at the mailman, because he didn't like strangers.
* Semicolon: The dog barked loudly at the mailman; he didn't like strangers.
In summary, while semicolons can be used to join related clauses, they are not a substitute for correct punctuation or conjunctions to fix run-on sentences.