Basics
What is a semicolon?
A punctuation mark (;) used to link related independent clauses or separate complex list items.
Use a semicolon to combine: “She is tired.” and “She stayed up all night.”
She is tired; she stayed up all night.
Name a conjunctive adverb.
However, therefore, moreover, nevertheless, consequently, otherwise
What is an independent clause?
A group of words that has a subject and a verb, expressing a complete thought.
Combine with a semicolon: “I wanted ice cream.” “There was none left.”
I wanted ice cream; there was none left.
Fill in the blank: “He didn’t study; ___, he failed.”
Therefore
True or False: A semicolon can replace a period between two related sentences.
True
Use a semicolon in this sentence: “We left early, we still missed the train.”
We left early; we still missed the train.
Add a semicolon: “I was hungry however there was no food.”
I was hungry; however, there was no food.
When is it better to use a semicolon instead of a comma?
When you want to connect two independent clauses without using a conjunction.
Add a semicolon: "The concert was canceled, however, we still went downtown."
The concert was canceled; however, we still went downtown.
What is the role of a conjunctive adverb in a semicolon sentence?
Connects two independent clauses and shows the relationship between them.
Does this sentence use a semicolon correctly?
I’ve lived in Paris, France; Berlin, Germany; and Tokyo, Japan.
Yes
Add a semicolon: I have a big test tomorrow, so I can’t go out tonight.
haha trick question. Only one is an independent clause.
Identify the error in this sentence and correct it:
“He studied all night for the test, however he still failed.”
Error:No semicolon before however, not a comma.
Correction: He studied all night for the test; however, he still failed.