While many people use the semicolon as an emoticon, writers use it between two independent clauses that are NOT joined with a conjunction to show a more intimate relationship between ideas than a period would suggest. The Chicago Manual of Style, 16th Edition, removes the mystery from the semicolon, allowing people to get beyond the emoticon and into effective prose. - Rule 6.54
Semicolons with “however,” “therefore,” “indeed,” and the like.
When joining two independent clauses, certain adverbs should be preceded by a semicolon instead of a comma. These transitional adverbs are thus, indeed, accordingly, however, hence, therefore, besides, and, occasionally, then. While a comma typically follows an adverb, it can be omitted entirely if the sentence seems strong without it. - Rule 6.55
Example
The accuracy of Sam’s oboe is never an issue; besides, it is the musician who makes the music, not the instrument.
Semicolons in a complex series.
Separating items in a series that have internal punctuation with semicolons aids clarity. If ambiguity is not an issue, commas can be used instead. - Rule 6.58
Example
The sales for the middle school band fundraiser were as follows: Flutes, $80; Saxophones, $45; Trumpets, $72; Percussion, $102.
The student, with hopes of raising her plummeting grades, complained that she had, on coach's orders, skipped the exam in favor of getting more sleep; that her performance —which had also been abysmal on the field —was due to lack of sleep; and that she had not slept in days.
Semicolons with “that is,” “for example,” “namely,” and the like.
Semicolons may precede expressions such as that is, for example, or namely when they introduce an independent clause. - Rule 6.56
Example
Sean wanted to play the wii U; that is, he wanted to beat the next level in Super Mario 3D.
Patrick didn't like her attitude; for example, she was abrasive and condescending.
Semicolons before a conjunction.
Independent clauses are normally introduced by conjunctions preceded by commas. However, to effect stronger, more dramatic separations between clauses, a semicolon can be used. A semicolon can also be used when the second independent clause contains internal punctuation. - Rule 6.57
Example
Keira wanted to be an alien for Halloween; yet the ninja costume turned out to be just what she wanted.
Laura really wanted to knit the sweater herself; but the time constraints, together with the cost of the wool, convinced her to wait until her schedule was less demanding.
The Chicago Manual of Style, 16th Edition. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 2010.
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| Cartoonist: Lauren Fishman |
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