Sep 9, 2025 · Semicolons (;) separate independent clauses that are related in meaning, and they separate items in a list when those items themselves are long or include commas. For example, this …

Although terminal marks (i.e. full stops, exclamation marks, and question marks) indicate the end of a sentence, the comma, semicolon, and colon are normally inside sentences, making them secondary …

A semicolon (;) indicates an audible pause and can replace a period if the writer wishes to narrow the gap between two closely linked sentences.

Dec 5, 2024 · A semicolon is a punctuation mark (;) used to connect closely two related independent clauses in a single sentence when discussing the same topic or contrasting two similar ideas.

Sep 26, 2022 · The colon and semicolon are two punctuation marks with similar names that often cause a lot of confusion. Because they aren’t used as often as some other punctuation marks, it can be …

This handout explains the most common uses of three kinds of punctuation: semicolons (;), colons (:), and dashes (—). After reading the handout, you will be better able to decide when to use these forms …

Do you avoid using a semicolon when writing because you aren’t sure how it should be used? Take a look at why you shouldn’t avoid it and how to add it to your writing.

Think of a semicolon as being like balancing scales. Both sides of the scale must be a main clause or a full sentence on their own. Don't use a semicolon instead of a comma to join a...

Dec 11, 2025 · A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark that combines the functions of both a period and a comma. It helps link closely related ideas or separates elements within complex sentences.

Most commonly, the semicolon is used between two independent clauses (i.e., clauses that could stand alone as separate sentences) when a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) is omitted.