Connecting two complete thoughts where a middle THAMO is used
If the second of two complete thoughts includes a THAMO, even in the middle, a semicolon is necessary to combine the thoughts into one sentence.
Example sentence:
Mark really likes bananas; he’s not, however, in the mood for one now.
- In this sentence, a semicolon after "bananas" combines the two complete thoughts because the second complete thought includes the THAMO "however." There is also a comma before and after "however" because that THAMO divides the second complete thought into two pieces.
THAMOs (which stands for "Therefore," "However," "Also," "Moreover," "Otherwise") are conjunctions that link two complete thoughts with a semicolon (or period). They are separated from the rest of the thought by a comma.
When a THAMO interrupts a single thought, place commas on both sides.
Example sentence:
Dave loved his dog. Bringing class, however, was a mistake.
- In this example, a comma comes before and after "however" because that THAMO divides the second complete thought into two pieces.
Whether a complete thought is attached to another thought or stands alone, THAMOs must be set off by commas.
THAMOs are formally known as conjunctive adverbs, but the term THAMO might help you remember the most common examples.
List of Common THAMOs:
- Accordingly, additionally, also, besides, consequently, finally, futhermore, elsewhere, however, in addition, in fact, indeed, likewise, meanwhile, moreover, nevertheless, next, nonetheless, otherwise, similarly, still, then, therefore, thus