CompFAQ/Semicolon

From Gerald R. Lucas
📝 English Composition Writing FAQ 11011102📖

Using the Semicolon

A semicolon is a punctuation mark that is used to connect two closely related independent clauses that could be separate sentences. Here are some guidelines on how to use a semicolon correctly:

Connecting closely related independent clauses: Use a semicolon to join two independent clauses that are closely related to each other but could stand as separate sentences.

Example: I have a big presentation tomorrow; I need to prepare for it tonight.

Separating items in a list: Use semicolons to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Example: The menu included grilled chicken with a side of vegetables; shrimp, scallops, and lobster bisque; and a chocolate dessert.

Clarifying a series of items: Use semicolons to clarify a series of items when commas are already being used within those items.

Example: The team members included John, the leader; Sarah, the marketing expert; and Alex, the sales manager.

Semicolons should not be used as a replacement for a period or a comma in a sentence. Instead, they should be used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related or to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Written: 2002, 2022; Revised: 05-3-2023; Version: Beta 0.7 💬