Semicolon

What is Semicolon?

Semicolon is a punctuation mark (;) indicating a pause, typically between two main clauses, that is more pronounced than that indicated by a comma. It help writers to imply the relationship between nicely balanced ideas without actually stating that relationship.

Example:

Call me tomorrow; you can give me an answer then.

How to use Semicolon?

1. Semicolon mostly use for join two independent clauses without using a conjunction like and, but, when, etc.

2. When you use conjunctions, remove the semicolon from sentence.

3. Use semicolon in the serial list.

Example - There were visitors from Bangor, Maine; Hartford, Connecticut; Boston, Massachusetts; and Newport, Rhode Island.

4. When you have conjunctive adverb like however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, etc. linked two independent clauses using semicolon.

Example- I needed to go for a walk and get some fresh air; also, I needed to buy milk.

5. A semicolon can used between independent clauses joined by a connector, such as and, but, or, nor, etc., when one or more commas appear in the first clause.

6. Do not capitalize ordinary words after a semicolon.