Section 15.4 The Semicolon
Section 15.3 introduced the semicolon’s primary role: joining closely related independent clauses. This section covers its other main use and summarizes the rules.
Between Independent Clauses.
Joins related independent clauses without a conjunction:
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The rain stopped; we went outside.
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She’s talented; however, she lacks experience.
In Complex Series.
When items in a series already contain commas, semicolons prevent confusion by marking the boundaries between items:
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The committee includes Dr. Smith, president; Mr. Jones, treasurer; and Ms. Lee, secretary.
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We visited Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Berlin, Germany.
Common Errors.
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Do not use a semicolon between an independent clause and a dependent clause:
She left; because she was tired. -
Do not use a semicolon to introduce a list (use a colon):
She bought three things; apples, bread, and milk.
