2. There are different cases in
which a semicolon is used to
separate independent clauses.
3. To separate independent clauses joined without a
conjunction.
Examples:
Three scientists began the research project; only
one completed it.
Discard the packaging; save the paperwork for
accounting.
The hour is over; it is time to stop working.
4. To separate independent clauses that contain
commas even if the clauses are joined by a
conjunction. The semicolon helps the reader see
where the break in thought occurs.
Example:
The team needed new equipment, updated
training manuals, and better professional advice; but
since none of this was provided, they performed as
poorly as they had in the previous competition.
5. To separate independent clauses connected
with a conjunctive adverb. Follow the adverb
with a comma. A conjunctive adverb is an
adverb that joins independent clauses.
Conjunctive adverbs are punctuated differently
than regular conjunctions. The first
independent clause is followed by a
semicolon; the conjunctive adverb is followed
by a comma.
6. Example:
In the book An American Childhood by
Annie Dillard, she recounts her
experiences as a child; furthermore, she
questions and speculates about the
meaning of life.
7. Here is a complete list of words used as conjunctive
adverbs.
Accordingly Nevertheless
Besides Otherwise
Consequently Therefore
Furthermore Thus
Hence Moreover
However Instead
8. Examples:
My paycheck was delayed;
therefore, I couldn’t pay my rent on
time.
The participants are ready; however,
the judges have not yet arrived.
9. Use a semicolon to separate items in a series if the
items contain commas. Unlike items in a series
separated by commas, a semicolon is used even
when there is a conjunction.
Example:
The dates we are considering for our annual party
are Thursday, May 23; Saturday, May 25; Sunday,
May 26; or Monday, May 27.
11. Use a colon to introduce a list of items, as long
as the part before the colon is already a
complete sentence.
Examples:
These people were cast in the play: Alan,
Ed, Joey, Ramon, and Ken.
We packed these items for the trip: cameras,
shirts, pants and beach wear.
12. Do not use a colon if the list of items
complements a verb; in other words, if it
completes the meaning begun by the verb.
Examples:
These people were cast in the play were
Alan, Ed, Joey, Ramon, and Ken.
For our trip we packed cameras, shirts,
pants, and beach wear.
13. Use a colon to introduce a formal
quotation.
Example:
John F. Kennedy ended the speech
with these notable words: “Ask not
what your country can do for you. Ask
what you can do for your country.”
14. Use a colon to emphasize a word, phrase, or
clause that adds particular emphasis to the
main body of a sentence. Again, the part
before the colon should already be a complete
sentence.
Example:
The financial problems our company has
been experiencing have been caused by one
thing: poor planning.
15. Use a colon to show a subordinate relationship
in the following cases.
oBetween two sentences when the second
explains the first.
Example:
Mother ignored the phone: she knew it was a
salesman for whom she had no time.
16. Between the title and the subtitle of the
book.
Examples:
Beyond 2000: A Futuristic View of Time
17. Between volume and page number or
between chapter and verse.
Examples:
World Book Encyclopedia VI:133
Psalms 23:2
19. After the greeting of a business letter. Commas are used
after greetings in personal or friendly letters. A colon
signals the reader that what is to follow is a business
matter, something to be taken seriously. This is
particularly true if you include the position, but not the
name of the person to whom the letter is addressed.
However, even in a business letter the closing is followed
by a comma.
Examples:
Dear Dr. Abendan: Dear Editor:
Cordially yours, Respectfully yours,
