Semicolons: An Introduction

What’s the Point of a Semicolon? Semicolons are most commonly used to connect two independent clauses that contain closely related ideas. Example: He waited at the station for well over an hour. However, no one appeared. The two statements are separated by a period. If read aloud, it would sound like this: He waited at the station for well over an hour. ::TAKE A BREATH:: However, no one appeared. If we add a semicolon between the two statements it would sound something like this: He waited at the station for well over an hour; however, no one appeared.

So What Happened? Here’s our sentence again: He waited at the station for well over an hour; however, no one appeared. When we add a semicolon between these two statements, we eliminate the pause without using conjunctions.

When Should You Use a Semicolon? Use a semicolon when you want to combine two independent clauses that are closely related. Anne is working at reception on Monday; Ernie will take over on Tuesday.

When Shouldn’t You Use a Semicolon? Do not use semicolons to: 1.Combine an independent clause and a phrase or subordinate clause or when you should use a conjunction. Example: INCORRECT: She worked extra hours every night; yet, was not able to finish the project on time. CORRECT: She worked extra hours every night yet was not able to finish the project on time.

When Shouldn’t You Use a Semicolon? 2. Do not use a semicolon to combine to unrelated statements. Incorrect: Alex flew to Arizona this morning; we went to a ball game. Correct: Alex flew to Arizona this morning, and we went to a ball game.

Quiz Time On a separate sheet of paper, identity the sentences that correctly use semicolons with an “C.” If the sentence is incorrect, identify it with an “I.” 1. She waited for her check to arrive in the mail for two weeks; however, the check never appeared. 2. Next weekend I plan on going hiking; which is one of my favorite activities. 3. I like to spend time outdoors; I can’t stand to stay inside. 4. Autumn is my favorite time of year; I enjoy reading books.