Punctuation

What is a semicolon?

A semicolon is a combination of a comma and a colon. A period/full stop can be used instead of a semicolon.

Why is a semicolon used?

A semicolon is used to join 2 independent clause that are closely related.

How to use a semicolon?

There are reason for using a semicolon.

A semicolon can used to join two independent clauses that are closly realated and that are:

• not joined by and, but, or, nor, for yet
• joined by phrases such as:
  • - for instance
  • - that is
  • - besides
  • - accordingly
  • - moreover
  • - never less,
  • - furthermore
  • - otherwise
  • - therefore
  • - however etc

Note: the semicolon is placed before the above phrases.

Examples:

• My sister is an excellent student at university; therefore she is getting a special award
• We are going to university next year; never less I am still going to go to visit Europe..
• I went to visit my grandparents, my aunt, my sisters and my friends in the country; we had a great time.

• Comma Usage
• Comma Usage - Lists
• Comma Usage - Independent Clauses
• Independent and Dependent Clauses
• Nonessential Clauses-Commas
• The Difference between Clauses or Phrases
• Introductory Phrases, Clauses and Words with Commas
• Commas Usage With Titles, Dates & Addresses