The semicolon (;) is one of the most misunderstood punctuation marks. Many people assume that it is interchangeable with a comma, but this is not the case. When used correctly, the semicolon is an effective tool for improving the readability of complex ideas and sentences.
Here are rules for using the semicolon with examples
Use a semicolon to separate two independent clauses when they are related in meaning. It is important to make sure that the independent clauses are closely related. If the two clauses are not closely related, a period should be used instead of a semicolon.
Example
I went to the store; I bought a new shirt.
I am tired; I will watch a movie to relax.
My brother loves to cook; he is an amazing chef.
Incorrect: I went to the store; I saw a movie. This is incorrect because "I went to the store" and "I saw a movie" are not closely related. Replace this with a period instead. The correct phrase is, "I went to the store. I saw a movie").
Also, keep in mind that if two clauses are separated by a coordinating conjunction (e.g. for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so), a semicolon can be used instead.
Example
I wanted to go for a walk but it started raining.
I wanted to go for a walk; however, it started raining. (After Using a Semicolon and Coordinating Conjunction)
The change introduces a semicolon before the conjunction "however" to clearly separate and emphasize the contrast between the two independent clauses.
Also Read:
Use a semicolon to separate items in a list when some of the items already contain commas. This is because the semicolon acts as a way to make a clear distinction between the items in the list.
Example
Examples:
Correct: I need to buy milk, eggs, apples, oranges, and bananas.
Correct: I need to buy milk and eggs; apples, oranges, and bananas.
Incorrect: We visited Boston, MA, New York City, NY, and Washington, DC.
Correct: We visited Boston, MA; New York City, NY; and Washington, DC.
A semicolon can be used to separate two closely related independent clauses that are connected by a conjunctive adverb. A conjunctive adverb is used to show a relationship, such as a comparison, contrast, cause and effect, or other relationships between two ideas. Examples of conjunctive adverbs include: consequently, however, moreover, nevertheless, otherwise, and therefore.
Example
I was planning to go to the party; however, I changed my mind.
She was a skilled painter; consequently, she was able to create beautiful works of art.
He was exhausted; however, he decided to keep running.
References:
- Using Semicolons - IUP
- Semicolon | Effective Writing Practices Tutorial | Northern Illinois University
- Semicolons - The Writing Center at UW-Madison
- Punctuation: Colon and Semicolon | Writing Style Guide | Western Michigan University
- The Semicolon: The Colon and the Semicolon | University of Sussex
- Semicolons: When, Where, and How to Use Them | Merriam-Webster