Semicolons separate items and sentences. They are stronger than a comma
and weaker than a period. Follow a
semicolon with one space, and the next word is not capitalized.
Two Clauses
Semicolons separate two related ideas in a sentence that are not connected
with a coordinating conjunction.
·
The ceremony is at
3:30 pm; the reception is at 5:30.
·
Please do not bring a
cell phone to the meeting; they are
prohibited in the conference room.
Before Conjunctive Adverbs
When separating two clauses, often the second clause begins with a
conjunctive adverb. These words are also
known as transitional words, including some of the following:
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Also
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In addition
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As well
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Likewise
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Moreover
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Furthermore
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However
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Therefore
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For Example
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Meanwhile
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Then
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Next
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Here are some examples:
·
The computer lab is
closed for the weekend; therefore, printing must be done at the library.
·
The results of the
experiment were inconclusive; however, the researchers were happy with the
outcomes.
** A comma usually
follows the conjunctive adverb.
Lists with Commas
Semicolons separate items in a list that include commas.
·
The
company has offices in Houston , Texas ; San Diego , California ; and Portland ,
Oregon
·
I
would like to introduce John Hopper, CEO; Mary Clark, Marketing Manager; and
Kevin Malone, Sales Manager.
Semicolon Mistakes
Do not separate
dependent and independent clauses with a semicolon.
Although he does not live in this city;
he is still eligible to take the
class.
These are joined with
a comma:
Although he does not live in this city,
he is still eligible to take the
class.
Do not use a semicolon to introduce lists or
other items. This needs a colon.
Please bring the following;
books, paper, pens.
Do
not use a semicolon after greetings in letters.
Dear John;
Do
not capitalize words after a semicolon.
I didn't understand the lesson; His
explanation was not helpful.
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Semicolon Test
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Place
semicolons in the sentences.
1. I
have not studied French however, I can speak the language.
2. My
teachers for this semester are as follows:
Mr. Gregory, mathematics
Ms. Richards, English and Ms. Hibert, history.
3. The
hotel does not have any rooms available Friday however, there are rooms available Saturday
night.
4. Provincial
capitals in
5. The
new shipment will be delayed for two days therefore, we need to notify the customer.
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