Business Writing Center

Tools

Semicolons

The most common use of a semicolon is to separate listed items that contain commas  (Ex. We met in past years on the following dates: July 20, 1999; July 22, 2000; and July 12, 2001.)

Use semicolons to separate independent clauses when the second clause is introduced by a conjunctive adverb such as however, therefore, nevertheless, furthermore, or consequently. (Ex. Our accounting department has reported an error for fiscal 2000; consequently, we need to notify the board immediately.)

In the past, grammar handbooks advised writers to use a semicolon between closely related independent clauses. (Ex. The part we ordered has arrived; it had been on back-order since June 11th.)  Today, we recommend that you simply punctuate the two independent clauses as separate sentences. (Ex. The part we ordered has arrived  It had been on back-order since June 11th.)