Semicolons

A semicolon (;) is used to separate complete sentences that are closely related or to separate items in a series that contain internal punctuation.

 

Independent Clauses

Use a semicolon between closely related independent clauses that are not joined with a coordinating conjunction.

Incorrect: Angela was distressed over having to write a term paper; so she asked for extra help.

Correct: Angela was distressed over having to write a term paper; she asked for extra help.

 
 

Conjunctive Adverbs and Transitional Expressions

Use a semicolon between sentences that are joined with a conjunctive adverb or a transitional expression.  The semicolon is placed before the transitional expression; a comma is placed after the transitional expression.

Incorrect: He is going to the play, however, he must leave early.

Correct: He is going to the play; however, he must leave early.

Incorrect: A recent study shows that bottled water is not as healthy for us as we may think, in fact, it may be no more safe than regular tap water.

Correct: A recent study shows that bottled water is not as healthy for us as we may think; in fact, it may be no more safe than regular tap water.

Common Conjunctive Adverbs accordingly finally  likewise similarly also furthermore meanwhile specifically anyway hence moreover still besides however nevertheless subsequently certainly incidentally next then consequently indeed nonetheless therefore conversely instead otherwise thus

Common Transitional Phrases after all even so in fact as a matter of fact for example in other words as a result for instance in the first place at any rate in addition on the contrary at the same time in conclusion on the other hand

 

Items in a Series with Internal Punctuation

Use a semicolon between items in a series that contain internal punctuation.

Incorrect: For her anniversary celebration, she purchased a pair of shoes with ankle straps, an open toe, and high heels, a short black dress with rhinestone buttons, and a small black purse made of silk, satin, and rhinestones.

Correct: For her anniversary celebration, she purchased a pair of shoes with ankle straps, an open toe, and high heels; a short black dress with rhinestone buttons; and a small black purse made of silk, satin, and rhinestones.

The colon (:) is mainly used to call attention to words that follow it.

Lists, Appositives, and Quotations

Use a colon after an independent clause to direct attention to a list, an appositive, or a quotation.

Incorrect: Before going on our trip we must purchase the following, a sleeping bag, a tent, and a survival kit. (List)

Correct: Before going on our trip we must purchase the following: a sleeping bag, a tent, and a survival kit.

Incorrect: The class was happy to report on their project an exploration of the role of inertia in everyday life. (Appositive)

Correct: The class was happy to report on their project: an exploration of the role of inertia in everyday life.

Incorrect: As responsible citizens, we should try to live by the words of John F. Kennedy "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." (Quotation)

Correct: As responsible citizens, we should try to live by the words of John F. Kennedy: "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country."

 

Independent Clauses

Use a colon between independent clauses if the second summarizes or explains the first. This use is rare.

Example: Her beauty captivated everyone she encountered: It was internal as well as external.

Semicolon & Colon Quiz

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