Ways to Use a Semicolon, Examples & Differences

Semicolon

In the English language, a Semicolon is one of the least understood of the standard marks. The main usage of it is to give a pause which is stronger than a comma but weaker than a period. Here in this article, you will find all the information that is required to understand semicolons.

What is a Semicolon? 

It is orthographic punctuation, which is used to link two interconnected statements. 
It is to be remembered that joining two or more ideas with a semi-colon, makes the two statements of equal rank. 
The Semicolon can sometimes also be written as a semi-colon. 
Symbol: “;”

When to Use a Semicolon?

1. It can be used when we have to connect independent clauses. 
2. It can also be used when we have a list of items to divide.
3. It can also be used when we have conjunctive adverbs to link two independent clauses. 
4. It can also be used to connect two clauses without a conjunction. 

Ways to Use a Semicolon

1. While connecting independent clauses. 

I avoid going office on Monday with my own vehicle; Traffic is high on peak hours.

2. While dividing the list of items to divide. 

I need the shipment of the following phone models of the brands: M30s, Samsung; Reno5, Oppo; I phone11, IPhone; 

motog5, Motorola.

3. While connecting clauses with conjunctive adverbs.

She saw that there was indeed a man immediately behind her. Moreover, he was observing her strangely.

4. While connecting two clauses without a conjunction.

All his friends advised him to abandon it; he went through with his plan. 

Semicolon Examples with Sentences

1. I have finally thought to forgive him; life is too short for grudges.
2. In terms of cleanest cities in India 2022, cities which made the list are Indore, MP; Surat, Gujarat; Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra; Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh; Bhopal, MP; Mysore, Karnataka; New Delhi, Delhi; Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. 
3. Nothing will ever completely replace enjoying my bike riding, however; I feel like I am inclining towards painting as well.
4. I went to a mall; I was told it is closed.

Colon vs Semicolon: What’s the Difference?

The difference between a Colon and a Semicolon is used when sentences are related closely in general, however, a colon is used to clarify or expand the previous sentence. 
Colon: Sachin Dhoni was a great captain: He always made swift and assertive decisions.
Semicolon: Dhoni was a great captain; the Indian team has brought many international cups under his leadership.

Conclusion

While using semicolons, it is to be kept in mind that they should be used to give a more significant pause than a comma but less significant than a period. Semicolon clauses can be joined without a conjunction.

FAQ’s

Que1. What are 3 ways to use a Semicolon?
1. It can be used when we have to connect independent clauses. 
2. It can also be used when we have a list of items to divide.
3. It can also be used when we have conjunctive adverbs to link two independent clauses.

Que2. What are the 5 uses of Semicolons?

1. To join independent clauses

2. To sort the list of items

3. To give a pause stronger than a comma but weaker than a full stop.

4. To link clauses with the help of conjunctive adverbs

5. To link closely related statements instead of expanding the previous statement.

Que3. When should a Semicolon be used example?
1. To connect independent clauses
E.g., I have finally thought to forgive him; life is too short for grudges.
2. To divide a list of items. 
In terms of cleanest cities in India 2022, cities which made the list are: Indore, MP; Surat, Gujarat; Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra; Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh; Bhopal, MP; Mysore, Karnataka; New Delhi, Delhi; Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. 
3. To link two independent clauses when we have conjunctive adverbs 
Nothing will ever completely replace enjoying my bike riding, however; I feel like I am inclining towards painting as well.

Que4. What are the 2 Semicolon Rules?
1. Use it in a list or series.
2. To join independent clauses.