The article discusses the decline of semicolon usage in UK literature, suggesting many authors are following Kurt Vonnegut's advice against their use. Research shows the occurrence of semicolons in English books has dropped from one every 205 words to one every 390 words in the last 20 years. A survey found that most British students rarely use semicolons, with only 11% identifying as frequent users. Linguists note the semicolon's utility in linking related clauses, although its overuse may lead to embarrassment, according to critics like Lynne Truss.
Lynne Truss, author of Eats, Shoots & Leaves, has criticized semicolons, stating that many writers who overuse them can become an embarrassment to their families.
Further research by Lisa McLendon found that 67% of British students never or rarely use the semicolon, highlighting its decline among younger writers.
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