When is the correct time to use a semi colon? How does it differ from comma usage?

Question

Only if you know please.

Answer 1

As the first poster said, the semi colon is used as a period. It differs from a comma, because a comma separates dependent and independent clauses.
(i.e: I really don't like semi colons; I do like periods though.

Because of the explosion, I had to drive west.)

The exception to that is two dependent clauses linked with a conjunction.

(i.e. Since that moron wrecked his car, I had to drive west.)

I hope that helps. Best of luck to you!

Answer 2

A semicolon acts the same way as a period does. A comma is used when you have two independent clauses.

Examples:
Mary drives a Mercedes; Joanne drives a Chevrolet.
I am going home, and I intend to stay there.

Answer 3

The previous answer is right; if you want the sense of the sentence to continue through rather than break it with a period, use a semi-colon. It's a useful rhythmic device, giving a drive to the prose.

Answer 4

You use the semicolon to separate two sentences when there is no coordinating conjunction like and, but, or, nor or for. Use it when there is a conjunctive adverb such as however, consequently, therefore, or moreover. Use semicolons to separate items in a series, if there are commas in the items, such as, Mr. Johnson, my neighbor; Mrs. Jones, my teacher; Miss Clark, my something and Joe Blow, my boyfriend.

Answer 5

A semicolon separates two closely related independent clauses where one could also use a period.

Example: I was exhausted; I fell down.
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