What’s a Semicolon? + When to Use It (with Examples)

What’s a Semicolon? + When to Use It (With Examples)

Table of contents

What’s a semicolon?

A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark that connects two independent clauses without using a coordinating conjunction (e.g., “and,” “but,” etc.). An independent clause is a group of words that features a subject and a verb and conveys a complete thought.

For example, a semicolon joins two independent clauses in this: “Ella loves to collect stamps; it’s her favorite pastime.” Each part of the sentence before and after the semicolon could be sentences of their own. That’s what makes them independent clauses!

Tip: Any time you see the phrase “independent clause,” replace it with “complete thought” or “complete sentence” to make it easier to understand.

Additionally, semicolons separate items in a list that already features commas, as shown here:

We visited Paris, France; London, England; and Venice, Italy.

Semicolons also indicate a pause that is stronger than a comma but not as strong as a period. This helps suggest that the two ideas in the sentence are closely related.

For example, consider the sentence,

“I ordered a latte; my friend got an espresso.”

You’ll also notice that the word after a semicolon isn’t capitalized (unlike with a period).

What’s the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Both colons and semicolons are used to connect two related clauses. However, semicolons connect two related independent clauses without explaining their relationship.

For example:

Lauren is taking five classes this semester; she’s got a busy schedule.

Meanwhile, a colon is often used to introduce more information or a list of items. For example:

Lauren is taking five classes this semester: political science, calculus, biology, French, and creative writing.

When do I use a semicolon? (with examples)

Here are four main instances when you’ll use a semicolon.

When connecting two related independent clauses

As I explained earlier, semicolons are most commonly used to join two independent clauses with a close and logical connection.

For example: "Rory loves to read; she carries a book everywhere she goes."

When separating items in a list containing commas

You should use semicolons to separate items in a list containing internal commas.

For example:

The pop star toured several cities across America: Atlanta, Georgia; Houston, Texas; Chicago, Illinois; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Los Angeles, California.

When using multiple dependent clauses

To add more depth and variety to your writing, you might use sentences with one or more dependent clauses.

For example:

Our dance class this month covered salsa, which is upbeat; ballet, which is challenging to master; and hip-hop, which is enjoyable to learn.

When using conjunctive adverbs

A conjunctive adverb (e.g., “however,” “moreover,” and “additionally”) is an adverb or adverb phrase that connects and shows the logical relationship between two independent clauses.

For example:

Sam forgot his boarding pass; therefore, he couldn’t board the plane.

When should I avoid using a semicolon?

You should never use a semicolon between an independent and dependent clause. Instead, use a comma:

❌ Semicolon: Although I love cheesecake; I prefer red velvet cake. ✅ Comma: Although I love cheesecake, I prefer red velvet cake.

Furthermore, don’t use a semicolon when you have two complete sentences connected by a coordinating conjunction.” For example:

❌ Semicolon: Ronald wanted to go to the beach; but it started to rain. ✅ Comma: Ronald wanted to go to the beach, but it started to rain.

Conclusion

A semicolon connects two related independent clauses without using coordinating conjunctions. Now that you’re armed with this information, you can confidently use semicolons in your writing.

FAQs

What is a semicolon vs. a comma?

A semicolon connects two independent clauses that are closely related (e.g., “I like to paint; it’s my favorite hobby.”) You can also use it to separate individual items in a list that contain commas (e.g., “I’ve lived in San Francisco, California; Denver, Colorado; and Newark, New Jersey.”)

When should I use a semicolon in a list?

Use a semicolon to distinguish individual items in a list, particularly when that list has commas and creates confusion.