when to use a semicolon in a list

November 12, 2018

when to use a semicolon in a list

Semicolon

It is not by chance that a  semicolon     It is a point above a comma.   Like commas, the semicolons indicate an audible pause, a little longer than the comma, but without a full point.

The semicolons also have other functions.   But first, a warning: avoid the common mistake of using a semicolon to replace a colon (see the "Colons" section).

Incorrect:     I have a goal;   To find it
Right:     I have a goal: find it.

Rule 1a.     A semicolon can replace a point if the writer wishes to narrow the gap between two closely related sentences.

Examples   :
Call me tomorrow;   Can you give me an answer then?
We have paid our fees;   We expect all the privileges listed in the contract.

Rule 1b.     Avoid a semicolon when a dependent clause appears before a separate clause.

Incorrect:     Although they tried;   they failed.
Right:     Although they tried, they failed.

Rule 2     Use a semicolon before words and terms such as namely, however, therefore, that is, for example, for example, for example, etc., when they introduce a complete sentence.   It is also preferable to use a comma after these words and terms.

Example:     Bring either of the two items;   However, sleeping bags and tents are scarce.

Rule 3     Use a semicolon to separate the units of a series when one or more of the units contain commas.

Incorrect:     The conference has people who have come from Moscow, Idaho, Springfield, California, Alamo, Tennessee, and other places as well.

Keep in mind that with only commas, that prayer is desperate.

Right:     The conference has people who have come from Moscow, Idaho;   Springfield, California;   Alamo, Tennessee;   and other places too.     (Note the last semicolon, instead of a comma, after     Tennessee   .)

Rule 4     You can use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by a connector, such as and, but, or, neither,     etc., when one or more commas appear in the first clause.

Example:     When I finish here, and soon I will, I will be happy to help you;   And that is a promise that I will keep.

Rule 5     Do not capitalize the ordinary words after a semicolon.

Incorrect:     I'm here;   You   it's over there
Right:     I'm here;   you are over there