Sep 9, 2025 · Semicolons (;) separate independent clauses that are related in meaning, and they separate items in a list when those items themselves are long or include commas. For example, this …

In older English printed texts, colons and semicolons are offset from the preceding word by a non-breaking space, a convention still current in modern continental French texts.

It's no accident that a semicolon (;) is a period atop a comma. Like commas, semicolons indicate an audible pause—slightly longer than a comma's, but short of a period's full stop. Semicolons have …

Dec 5, 2024 · Semicolons provide a stronger pause than a comma and a softer transition than a period. Understanding when to use semicolons is vital for clear writing and enhancing sentence flow.

The semicolon is sometimes described as stronger than a comma but weaker than a period. In certain uses, this is a reasonably accurate definition. Yet there is more to the semicolon than that.

This handout explains the most common uses of three kinds of punctuation: semicolons (;), colons (:), and dashes (—). After reading the handout, you will be better able to decide when to use these forms …

Feb 18, 2022 · The semicolon is a punctuation mark that is not used as often as a period or a comma, possibly because people are afraid of using it incorrectly. This is unfortunate; the semicolon can …

Semicolons can be used in lists to outrank any commas that appear in list items. That's less complicated than it sounds. In a normal list, the list items are separated by commas. However, sometimes the list …

Dec 11, 2025 · Grammar and Punctuation Rules Semicolons A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark that combines the functions of both a period and a comma. It helps link closely related ideas or separates …

Oct 14, 2025 · Learn how and when to use semicolons with confidence and flair. This guide will help you master semicolon usage with four simple rules, real examples, and tips to make your writing polished!