Semicolons
Learn how to use semicolons to connect related ideas and organize complex lists
What Is a Semicolon?
A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark used to connect closely related ideas, separate items in complex lists, and clarify meaning in sentences. It is stronger than a comma but not as final as a period.
When to Use Semicolons
1. To Join Independent Clauses
Use a semicolon to join two closely related independent clauses that are not joined by a coordinating conjunction.
Example: I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.
2. With Conjunctive Adverbs
Use a semicolon before a conjunctive adverb (however, therefore, moreover, consequently, etc.) that joins two independent clauses.
Example: She was tired; however, she finished her homework.
3. In Complex Lists
Use semicolons to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.
Example: On our trip, we visited Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Madrid, Spain.
Semicolons in Context
I wanted to go for a walk; it was raining outside.
He loves to read; moreover, he writes poetry.
We visited London, England; Paris, France; and Berlin, Germany.
Interactive Quiz 1: Semicolon Usage
Choose where the semicolon should go:
I have a meeting in the morning _____ I need to go to bed early.
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Answer: I have a meeting in the morning; I need to go to bed early.
She was late _____ however, she still got the job.
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Answer: She was late; however, she still got the job.
We bought apples, oranges, and bananas _____ pears, peaches, and plums.
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Answer: We bought apples, oranges, and bananas; pears, peaches, and plums.
Interactive Quiz 2: Correct or Incorrect?
Is the semicolon used correctly?
I like pizza; and I like pasta.
Show Answer
Incorrect. Use a comma before "and" or remove "and" to use a semicolon.
He is smart; he studies a lot.
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Correct. Two independent clauses joined by a semicolon.
We went to the store; because we needed milk.
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Incorrect. Use a comma, not a semicolon, before "because."
Interactive Quiz 3: Semicolons in Lists
Choose the correct way to punctuate the list:
We visited New York, New York _____ Los Angeles, California _____ and Chicago, Illinois.
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Answer: We visited New York, New York; Los Angeles, California; and Chicago, Illinois.
The conference has speakers from Paris, France _____ Berlin, Germany _____ and Madrid, Spain.
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Answer: The conference has speakers from Paris, France; Berlin, Germany; and Madrid, Spain.
Interactive Quiz 4: Create Sentences with Semicolons
Create sentences using semicolons:
Join: I finished my homework. I went outside to play.
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Example: I finished my homework; I went outside to play.
Join: She likes apples. She likes oranges.
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Example: She likes apples; she likes oranges.
List: I have lived in Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Madrid, Spain.
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Example: I have lived in Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Madrid, Spain.
Important Grammar Rules for Semicolons
No Coordinating Conjunction
Do not use a semicolon with coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet).
Use with Conjunctive Adverbs
Use a semicolon before conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, etc.) joining two independent clauses.
Complex Lists
Use semicolons to separate items in a list when the items contain commas.
Related Topics
Quick Reference
Pro Tip
Semicolons help clarify meaning and connect related ideas in your writing!