How do you use a semicolon?

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The use of semicolon

  • The semicolon is used to separate major sentence elements of equal grammatical lengths (Hacker 250).
  • The semicolon is used between closely related independent clauses not joined with a coordinating conjunction (Hacker 251).
    • Related independent clauses in one sentence are usually connected with a

comma and a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet).

  • The conjunction expresses the relation between the clauses. If the

relation is clear without the conjunction, a writer may choose to connect the clauses with a semicolon instead (Hacker 251).

    • "Injustice is relatively easy to bear;what stings is justice." - H.L.Mencken
  • A semicolon must be used whenever a coordinating conjunction has been

omitted between independent clauses.If a comma is used instead of a semicolon, it creates a kind of run-on sentence called a comma splice.

  • In 1800, a traveler needed six weeks to get from New York City to Chicago; in 1860, the trip by railroad took two days (Hacker 251).
  • Use a semicolon between independent clauses linked with a transitional expression.
  • Transitional expressions consist of conjunctive adverbs and transitional phrases.
Conjunctive Adverbs
accordingly, also, anyway, besides, certainly, consequently, conversely, finally, furthermore, hence, however, incidentally, indeed, instead, likewise, meanwhile, moreover, nevetheless, next, nonetheless, otherwise, similarly, specifically, still, subsequently, then, therefore, thus (Hacker 251).
Transitional Phrases
after all, as a matter fact, as a result, at any rate, at the same time, even so, for example, for instance, in addition, in conclusion, in fact, in other words, in the first place, on the contrary, on the other hand (Hacker 252).
  • When a transitional expression appears between two independent clauses, it is preceded by a semicolon and often followed by a comma (Hacker 252).
  • Many corals grow very gradually; in fact, the creation of a coral reef can take centuries (Hacker 252).
  • If a transitional expression appears in the middle or at the end of the second independent clause, then the semicolon goes between the clauses (Hacker 252).
  • Most singers gain fame through hard work and dedication; Evita, however, found other means (Hacker 252).
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