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

## Table of contents

- [What’s a semicolon?](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#whats-a-semicolon/index.html)
- [What’s the difference between a semicolon and a colon?](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#whats-the-difference-between-a-semicolon-and-a-colon/index.html)
- [When do I use a semicolon? (with examples)](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#when-do-i-use-a-semicolon-with-examples/index.html)
- [When connecting two related independent clauses](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#when-connecting-two-related-independent-clauses/index.html)
- [When separating items in a list containing commas](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#when-separating-items-in-a-list-containing-commas/index.html)
- [When using multiple dependent clauses](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#when-using-multiple-dependent-clauses/index.html)
- [When using conjunctive adverbs](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#when-using-conjunctive-adverbs/index.html)
- [When should I avoid using a semicolon?](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#when-should-i-avoid-using-a-semicolon/index.html)
- [Conclusion](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#conclusion/index.html)
- [FAQs](/content/blog/whats-a-semicolon#faqs/index.html)

### 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.