What is a semicolon?
A semicolon (;) joins two complete sentences that are closely linked in meaning.
They can be used instead of a full stop between related sentences, or instead of a conjunction like 'and' or 'but'.
I like going to the beach; building sandcastles is fun.
A semicolon can also help separate longer phrases in a list, especially when commas have already been used.
To build a sandcastle, you need a bucket, spade and sand; water to hold the sand together; and shells or sticks, to decorate it.
What are semicolons?
Discover how to use semicolons with this news article about a sandcastle building competition. Then, put your knowledge to the test in the quiz!
How to use semicolons
A semicolon joins two closely related but independent sentences.
You can check if a semicolon is the best choice by making sure:
- Both parts can stand alone as complete sentences.
- They are about the same topic or idea.
- You could join them with a conjunction like 'and' or 'but'.
Semicolons are also useful for separating complex list items that already contain commas, especially when those items are detailed or descriptive.
Example 1
What is wrong with the sentence below?
How could it be punctuated correctly?
It was nearly dark, the children hadn’t finished their sandcastle.
✓ This sentence contains a comma splice.
A comma splice happens when two independent clauses (complete sentences) are incorrectly joined with only a comma.
To fix it, you either need a full stop, a conjunction, or a semicolon to join the clauses correctly.
It was nearly dark; the children hadn’t finished their sandcastle.
Example 2
Which sentence below is punctuated correctly?
a) The storm clouds gathered overhead; and the children ran for shelter.
b) The storm clouds gathered overhead; the children ran for shelter.
✓ b) The storm clouds gathered overhead; the children ran for shelter.
A semicolon joins two closely related independent clauses without a conjunction.
In option 'a', the word ‘and’ makes the semicolon unnecessary.
Option 'b' correctly uses the semicolon to link two complete, related sentences.
Task
Search for the semicolon!
- Choose a topic you love, like music, art, cooking, gaming…
- Then write 10 sentences about it.
- Next, see which sentences you might be able to join using a semicolon!
- Write these sentences out in the style of a newspaper report.
500 Words
The UK's biggest children's story-writing competition for 5-11 year-olds is open for entries!
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