Other Punctuation Marks

The Semicolon (;)

Semicolons are used between two closely related complete thoughts/independent clauses, not joined by a joining word/coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet). When the two independent clauses are not linked with a coordinating conjunction a semicolon must be used.

Examples:

Injustice is relatively easy to bear; what stings is justice.

–H.L. Mencken

In 1800, a pioneer needed 42 days to get from New York to Chicago; in 1860, the trip by railroad took two days.

Semicolons are used between independent clauses linked with a transitional phrases and conjunctive adverbs.

Transitional Phrases:

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

Conjunctive Adverbs:

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

Examples:

Musical theater productions are very elaborate and detailed; in fact, they can take months to rehearse.

Most singers gain fame through hard work and dedication; Laura Bell Bundy, certainly, was no exception.

Semicolons, just like periods and commas, are used to help the reader sort out pauses and major groupings in sentences.

Semicolons are also used between items in a series containing internal punctuation.

Example:

My all time favorite movies are Pride and Prejudice, starring Keira Knightly; Pirates of the Caribbean, with Keira Knightly again and John Depp; and Becoming Jane, and movie based on the life of Jane Austen.