Grammar Tips. Semicolon.

The semicolon (;) is used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning. Here's how to use a semicolon:

1. Connect closely related independent clauses: Use a semicolon to separate two independent clauses that are closely related but could stand alone as separate sentences.

- I have a meeting at 10 a.m.; I need to prepare some documents.

2. Separating items in a series with internal commas: If you have a list of items where each item contains commas, you can use semicolons to separate the items.

- The concert featured performers from New York, USA; London, England; and Paris, France.

3. Clarifying complex lists: When you have a list with multiple elements and some of the elements contain commas, you can use semicolons to clarify the separation between the items.

- The menu included chicken curry with rice, a popular Indian dish; spaghetti Bolognese, an Italian classic; and stir-fried noodles, a favorite among Chinese cuisine.

Remember, a semicolon (;) should not be used to join an independent clause and a dependent clause. In such cases, a comma or a conjunction is usually appropriate.

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Use a semicolon between two independent clauses linked by transitional expression. For example, accordingly, therefore, nevertheless, however.  

INCORRECT: This is also a very powerful system, therefore we should treat it as something we can deepen.

CORRECT: This is also a very powerful system; therefore, we should treat it as something we can deepen.

Use a semicolon between two independent clauses. (i.e. clauses that could stand alone as separate sentences) when a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so) is not used.

INCORRECT: She is my guide, she is my light.

CORRECT: She is my guide; she is my light.