Semicolon

usgb/ˈsemikəʊlən,ˈsemaɪkəʊlən/
noun

A punctuation mark (;) used to connect independent clauses of a sentence or to separate items in a list, especially when the items contain commas.

I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go to the party tonight.
Visual representation of "semicolon" - A punctuation mark (;) used to connect independent clauses of a sentence or to separate items in a list, especially when the items contain commas.

Often appears as...

  • use a semicolon
  • semicolon usage
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "semicolon"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Clarifying Lists

Use semicolons to clarify items in complex lists that contain internal commas.

Illustration for Clarifying Lists
The conference has attendees from Paris, France; Berlin, Germany; and Tokyo, Japan.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Balancing Sentences

Semicolons balance two related but independent ideas without using a conjunction.

Illustration for Balancing Sentences
She was the wiser; he was the stronger.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Avoiding Overuse

Too many semicolons can make writing seem complicated; use them sparingly.

Illustration for Avoiding Overuse
She likes cats; dogs, however; are her favorite; which is evident.
Visual representation of the word "Semicolon"

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