Semicolons
There are three uses for the semicolon:
- To join two independent clauses (complete sentences) that are closely related.
- To join two independent clauses when the second clause begins with a conjunctive adverb or a transitional phrase (therefore, however, as a result, in fact, etc.)
- To separate items in a series when one or more of the items contain a comma.
HOT GRAMMAR TIP
To make sure you have used the semicolon correctly, check to see if there is a complete sentence on either side of the semicolon. Also, the two sentences must be directly related.
Joining Independent Clauses
Here the semicolon serves the same purpose as a coordinate conjunction. However, the semicolon is used sparingly whereas the coordinate conjunction may be used often.
Example
One shouldn't work while on vacation; vacations are for fun.
Explanation: There are two independent clauses, or complete sentences, here.
The first is "One
shouldn't work while on vacation," and the second is "vacations are for fun."
Joining Two Independent Clauses with a Conjunctive Adverb or Transitional Expression
Here the semicolon immediately precedes the conjunctive adverb and is followed by a comma.
Example
I would go shopping with you; however, I am expecting company.
Explanation:
There are two independent clauses here, and the second begins with the conjunctive
adverb "however."
Separating Serial Items
Here the semicolon serves the purpose of not confusing the reader when there is already a comma in one or more of the items in a series.
Example
The people at the party included John, a fellow my husband works
with; Sue, John's wife; Joanne, Sue's best friend; and Jerry, Joanne's husband.
Explanation: Since the content in the items already contains commas, it would
be confusing to the reader to separate these items with commas. Therefore, semicolons
are used to separate these items.