How to Use a Semicolon Correctly (3 Rules)
Blog / PUNCTUATION
A semicolon has three main uses: joining two closely related complete sentences, coming before transitions like "however" between sentences, and separating list items that already contain commas.
Rule 1: Join related sentences
"I finished the report; it took all weekend." Both sides could stand as separate sentences.
Don't use a semicolon if one side is not a complete sentence: "Because I was tired; I went home" is wrong.
Rule 2: Before a transition
"The plan was risky; however, it worked." Put a comma after the transition word.
Other transitions: therefore, moreover, consequently, otherwise.
Rule 3: Complex lists
"We visited Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Lisbon, Portugal." The semicolons prevent confusion.
This is the only case where items on either side need not be complete sentences.
Semicolon vs colon
A colon introduces something (a list, explanation or quotation); a semicolon links equals.
If in doubt, a period is always safe.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a semicolon instead of a comma?
Only between complete sentences or in complex lists.
Is the word after a semicolon capitalised?
No, unless it is a proper noun.
Does a semicolon count as a sentence end?
Most counters, including ours, count sentences by periods, question marks and exclamation marks.