Should the semicolon below be replaced by a comma? Stylistically, then, it is acceptable; right? Thank you!
I'd probably use a period, myself. I think the issue comes down to whether "Right?" qualifies as a complete sentence. If it's a complete sentence, the comma is out. If it's not a complete sentence, the semi-colon is out. Since I don't know if it's a complete sentence - period!
Yes, replace with a comma, or as suggested above a period. A semicolon should either itemise a list of things (usually following a colon) or be used as a combining conjunction for two complete sentences, e.g. instead of 'and'. You need to know three things: the power of a semicolon; the beauty of a semicolon; the distinct odour of a semicolon. My friend Geoff once misused a semicolon; he's dead now.
Stylistically, then, it is acceptable; right? Right? is the elided form of “Is that right?” So I would conclude that the semicolon or period is correct here. Just as the semicolon before correct signifies the elision “Is that correct?” So both forms below should be correct: Stylistically, then, it is acceptable; correct? Stylistically, then, it is acceptable. Right?
