Semicolon Rules

Use a semicolon with an appropriate conjunctive adverb (transition word) to connect two complete sentences that are closely related.

Correct: The Christ Chapel spire is in danger of falling over; however, engineers are trying to stabilize its foundation.

Incorrect: The Christ Chapel spire is in danger of falling over; however, St. Peter Transit still offers rides within town.

Use a semicolon by itself to connect two complete sentences that are very closely related.

Correct: Religion is a very touchy subject; it may be good to avoid discussing it with strangers or new friends.

Incorrect: Religion is a very touchy subject; many people have an opinion about it.

Use a semicolon to separate a series of phrases or clauses that have punctuation, like commas, in them.

Correct: Axel Steuer invited three employees over for dinner: Will Freiert, a classics professor; Brian Johnson, a chaplain; and Amy Pehrson, a secretary.

Incorrect: Axel Steuer invited three employees over for dinner: classics professor Will Freiert; chaplain Brian Johnson; and secretary Amy Pehrson.