My Notes Flashcards
When to use a semicolon
Semicolons with independent clauses
Use a semicolon to join two related independent clauses in place of a comma and a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet). Make sure when you use the semicolon that the connection between the two independent clauses is clear without the coordinating conjunction.
Correct: John finished all his homework, but Kathleen did not finish hers.
You can replace the comma and coordinating conjunction with a semicolon since the connection between the two independent clauses is clear without the coordinating conjunction
Correct: John finished all his homework; Kathleen did not finish hers.
Semicolons should not be used between a dependent clause and an independent clause.
Incorrect: Although Nate is a kind employee; that new guy is not.
Rule to Remember
Use a semicolon between related sentences when the second sentence starts with either a conjunctive adverb or a transitional expression.
Correct: Although Nate is a kind employee, that new guy is not.
