Semi-Colon

A semi-colon ( ; ) is a punctuation mark used to connect two thoughts or ideas which are somehow similar. Generally, each thought or idea could be used as its own sentence, but the flow of the work may be interrupted by the short, choppy sentences. Semi-colons are a little archaic, and are not necessary in modern writing. Even in formal writing, they may be replaced by a comma or a period. However, if they are used properly, semi-colons can add a pleasing continuity to your work.



When reading out loud, we pause for semi-colons much the same way we pause for a comma.

Semi-colons with conjunctions

Semi-colons should not be used before a coordinating conjunction (and, but, yet, so) which connects two independent clauses. Use a comma instead.



Incorrect: Claudia is really into vocal music; but opera is one of her favourite types of music.

Both “Claudia is really into vocal music” and “opera is one of her favourite types of music” are independent clauses, joined by the conjunction “but”. The semi-colon should be replaced by a comma.



Correct: I am not fond of green vegetables, and I despise broccoli.

“And” is the conjunction, which is preceded by a comma.

Semi-colons with conjunctive adverbs

If there is a conjunctive adverb linking two independent clauses, you should use a semicolon. Some conjunctive adverbs are: moreover, nevertheless, however, otherwise, therefore, then, finally, likewise andconsequently. Clearly identify the independent clauses (which can be full sentences on their own) on either side of the conjunctive adverb, and identify the conjunctive adverb itself.



Incorrect: I needed to go for a walk and get some fresh air, also, I needed to buy milk.

“Also” is a conjunctive adverb joining two independent clauses, and requires a semicolon in front of it.



Incorrect: Reports of the damage caused by the hurricane were greatly over-exaggerated, indeed, the storm was not a “hurricane” at all.

“Indeed” is the conjunctive adverb joining two independent clauses, so a semicolon should be used before “indeed”.



Correct: The students had been advised against walking alone at night; however, Cathy decided walking wasn’t dangerous if it was early in the evening.

“However” is the conjunctive adverb which joins the two independent clauses, so a semicolon is used.

Semi-colons between dependent and independent clauses

A semi-colon should not be used between an independent clause and a dependent clause; use a comma instead. Clearly identify the independent clause (which could be a full sentence on its own), and the dependent clause (which is not a full sentence), and put a comma between them.



Incorrect: Broadening your horizons can be beneficial to all aspects of your life; employment particularly benefits.

Incorrect: I cannot understand why our professor insists upon full bibliographies; because they’re not really necessary, are they?

“Because they’re not really necessary, are they?” is a dependent clause, so the semicolon before “because” is incorrect.



Correct: There is no knowledge of which I am unworthy, only teachers of which I am unworthy.

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