Definition & Examples

The semicolon ( ; ) is used to show a strong separation between the parts of a sentence than does a comma. Semicolon produce rather involved sentence patterns. 1.  The semicolon is used to separate independent coordinate clauses closely connected in meaning when no coordinate conjunction is used. Ex: The sales staff meets every other Tuesday; the production staff meets only once a mouth. 2. The semicolon is used between coordinate clauses of a compound sentence when they are joined by transitional words and phrases: indeed   afterwards   again   meanwhile   therefore however  moreover   otherwise   still   then   consequently   on the other hand in addition   in fact   on the contrary   etc………. Note: When you use a semicolon in place of a comma before the transitional word, you usually put a comma after the transitional word. However, when the transitional word retains its adverbial force and is not regarded as an independent element, it is seldom set off with a comma. Ex: The weather was cold and icy; therefore we didn’t go. 3.  The semicolon is used before a coordinate conjunction ( and, but, for, or, nor ) between two independence clauses when either one or both have internal punctuation. Ex: The staff house keeper ordered carpets, divans, lamps, tables, and chairs; but he order was incorrectly filled. 4.  The semicolon is used before such words as for example, for instance, that is, and namely that introduce an example, enumeration, or a list in a sentence. A comma is placed after such words. Ex: Many of policies will be changed this year; for example, salesmen will be paid a commission instead of a salary. 5.  The semicolon is used in lists where a comma is insufficient to separate the members clearly. Ex: Guests at the conversation were Mr. Leonard Key, the past president of the corporation; Mrs. F. K. Small, the wise of the founder; and Mr. Paul Wells, the speaker of the evening. In practical writing; however, avoid using the semicolon because it is generally too stiff and formal. If you are either using them incorrectly, or you are writing sentence which are too long. Use them sparingly.

"Used sparingly, the semicolon emphasizes your crucial contrasts; used recklessly, it merely clutters your page."  -- Sheridan Baker