punctuation Semi-Colon (;) Rules

[majateaches]

Did you know that the semi-colon has been gaining attention internationally? It's quite fascinating, and rings very true, but I though I would clear up the punctuation rules of the semi-colon with this post.

1. The semi-colon is a long pause that balances two equally important ideas.     For example: She went by train; she would rather have flown.

2. It can show opposites in one sentence.   For example: In summer she swims; in winter she skates.

The two points below are related:

3. It joins two main clauses (main idea sentences) where there is no conjunction.  For example: She studied diligently for the tests; she had nothing to fear.

4. A semi-colon may often be replaced by a full stop, or by the conjunctions and, but, so, for and although. [This is why we see semi-colons so seldom, because people mostly replace semi-colons with full stops or conjunctions]

I encourage you to try using a semi-colon in your writing, I love the long pause that you get by using it.

[JasleenKaur]

A semicolon can replace a period if the writer wishes to narrow the gap between two closely linked sentences.

Example:

Call me tomorrow; you can give me an answer then.
We have paid our dues; we expect all the privileges listed in the contract.

[majateaches]

Oh that's a great point! Thank you for the excellent examples.

[agentzero]

Some good examples guys! I really wanted to include the semi-colon in my writing but have struggled to find a way how. I think it's because I always found an argument for a colon or a period to be put in instead. Do you have any examples where it's best possible option to use a semi-colon? 

[KIO5NN8C7DEB15AYGM0U]

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