What Is a Semicolon (;)
The most common use of the semicolon is to join two independent clauses without using a conjunction like and. However, semicolons are not interchangeable with commas or periods. Capital letter is not used after semicolon except the word is a proper noun or an acronym.
Examples:
- We will go to the aquarium on Wednesday; it will be fun watching various species of sea creatures.
- I cannot plan outing on Monday; Anna comes for cleaning.
- Here are the rules for using semicolons correctly.
1. Semicolons Connect Related Independent Clauses
You can use a semicolon to join two closely related independent clauses. A sentence that comes before the semicolon and the sentence that comes after the semicolon should share a close, logical connection.
Examples:
- I ordered a cheeseburger for lunch; life’s too short for counting calories.
- Money is the root of all evil; I don’t believe the reverse is necessarily true.
- Martha has gone to the library; Andrew has gone to play soccer.
2. Delete the Conjunction When You Use a Semicolon
A semicolon is not the only thing that can link two independent clauses. Conjunctions can do that too. However, a semicolon and a conjunction should not be used together. That means semicolons is used in place of conjunctions (and, or, but), so both cannot come together.
Examples:
- I saw a magnificent albatross, and it was eating a mouse.
- I saw a magnificent albatross; it was eating a mouse.
3. Use Semicolons in a Serial List
You can use semicolons to divide the items of a list if the items are long or contain internal punctuation. In these cases, the semicolon helps readers keep track of the divisions between the items.
Examples:
- I need the weather statistics for the following cities: London, England; Ontario, Canada; Paris, France; Perth, Australia; Edinburgh, Scotland.
- My plan included taking him to a nice—though not necessarily expensive—dinner; going to the park to look at the stars, which, by the way, are amazing this time of year; and serenading him with my accordion.
4. Use Semicolons with Conjunctive Adverbs
When you have a conjunctive adverb linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. Some common conjunctive adverbs include moreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise, and consequently.
Examples:
- I needed to go for a walk and get some fresh air; also, I needed to buy milk. Reports of the damage caused by the hurricane were greatly exaggerated; indeed, the storm was not a “hurricane” at all.
- The students had been advised against walking alone at night; however, Cathy decided walking wasn’t dangerous if it was early in the evening.
- I’m not all that fond of the colours of tiger lilies; moreover, they don’t smell very good.