The semicolon can, in simple terms, be defined as a punctuation mark that is stronger than a comma but weaker than a period. In most cases, this is an acceptable definition. However, this there’s more to this little guy, and with his use, he can make your reading experience a tad more interesting.
When would you use a semi colon?
- To separate clauses
- To create variety
- To emphasize a relation
- To separate items in a complex list
For example:
Separating Clauses
Instead of separating clauses into two sentences, you can separate them using a semicolon, which will help reiterate their relation. For instance:
I have to wake up early tomorrow; I better go to bed soon.
Instead of –
I have to go to bed early. I better go to bed soon.
Creating Variety
Semicolons give you the option to allow your paragraphs to flow, instead of using short choppy sentences, or too many coordinating conjunctions.
Emphasising Relations/Connections
Often, a semicolon is placed in between two clauses to emphasize their connection. You simply wouldn’t get the same relation when using a period and if you used a comma, you would have to add a coordinating conjunction. For instance:
The students headed to the cafeteria for lunch; the teachers remained at their desks.
If you were to use a comma instead, you’d have to add your coordinating conjunction:
The students headed to the cafeteria, but the teachers remained at their desks.
Listing/Separating Items
You can use a semi colon when you need to list things in a sentence, since a comma will be used to separate the listed items, and you don’t want to cause confusion. For instance:
Sarah’s bed time routine involves; brushing here teeth, drinking a glass of water, combing her hair and reading a few pages from her book.
As you can see, this tiny little fella shouldn’t be taken for granted and when used correctly, it has the potential to make your writing far more enticing and friendly to it’s readers.
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