using coordinating connectives

[sharanbr]

Are coordinating connectives used when clauses are joined together but are connected without a semicolon

e.g.
Karen studies, but Jessica watches TV
Karen studies; but Jessica watches TV

Are these both valid ?

Regards

[baqarah131]

I don't understand your question about coordinating connectives. (I have been speaking English for more than 60 years and have a university degree in English, and I have no idea what is a coordinative connective!

In your second sentence, the semicolon would be wrong. Even the comma is not absolutely necessary.

Use semicolons as little as possible. A comma or a period is usually better.

cheers
edward

Are coordinating connectives used when clauses are joined together but are connected without a semicolon

e.g.
Karen studies, but Jessica watches TV
Karen studies; but Jessica watches TV

Are these both valid ?

Regards

[sharanbr]

I am referring a book and it says main clauses can be joined using the following 7 coordinating connectives :

and, but, or, so, nor, yet

Regarding your comment that comma is not really neccessary, do you think the main clauses can be joined without a comma ?

Regards

[baqarah131]

I think I'd throw your grammar book into the Bay of Bengal. The English language is a treasure to be enjoyed. Rules like that are soul-destroying.

Most English speakers have no idea how to use commas correctly.
It only become important in very formal writing.

You don't always need the comma to join main clauses, especially if they're very short.

A safe rule would be: Reading the sentence aloud, if you'd pause between the clauses, use a comma.
If you'd read the sentence without a pause, put the comma in if you feel like it, but it's not essential.

regards
edward