How to Use a Semicolon

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Emphasize the close relationship between two sentences by using a semicolon to form a compound sentence.

Step 1: Join closely related independent clauses
Join two independent clauses that are closely related by inserting a semicolon between them. Independent clauses can stand on their own as sentences.

Step 2: Use with conjunctive adverbs and transitions
Use a semicolon to join two independent clauses when the second clause begins with a conjunctive adverb, such as "however," or a transitional phrase, such as "for example."

Tip
Use a comma, not a semicolon, to link two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction such as "and," "but," "yet," "so," "for," "nor," and "or."

Step 3: Separate a complex list
Separate items in a complex list when the items contain commas by using semicolons after each item.

Did You Know?
The Greek question mark looks identical to the English semicolon.