Name:_____________________________________
Mrs. Daniel Block _______________________
English 11H
Date:_____________________________________
Grammar Notes: Semicolons & Colons249-250 pp. 226-228
Semicolons
1.
A semicolon (;) separates the elements in a sentence. It indicates a more definite break than a comma.
2.
Use a semicolon to join the independent clauses of a compound sentence in which no
coordinating conjunction is used.
Independent Clause Independent Clause
The Magna Carta protected citizens from royal abuses of power
;
the Bill of Rights protects citizens from federal abuse of power.
3.
Use a semicolon between independent clauses that are joined by a conjunctive adverb or transitional phrase.
Conjunctive Adverb
The Constitution prohibits “unreasonable searches”
;
however, the courts need to decide what’s “unreasonable”.
Free speech is a complex issue
;
for example, should conversations in Internet chat rooms be considered privte or public?
Transitional Phrase
Common Conjunctive Adverbs
Common Transitional Phrases
Finally, consequently, nevertheless, also, moreover, therefore, otherwise, however
As a result, for example, in fact, in other words, that is, for instance

4.
NOTE: Use a commas, not a semicolon, to separate a phrase or subordinate clause from an independent clause.
Subordinate Clause Independent Clause
Although the Constitution has been amended many times, the Bill of Rights has never been amended.
5.
Use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by a conjunction if either clause contains commas.
In 1896
,
The Supreme Court
,
in a seven-to-one vote
,
ruled that racial segregation was constitutional
;
but
,
on May 17
,
1954
,
by a unanimous vote
,
the Supreme Court overturned that ruling.
6.
Use a semicolon to separate items in a series if one or more of the items contains
commas.
These liberties are guaranteed in the Bill of Rights: freedom of speech
, press
,
and religion
, by the First Amendment
;
right to privacy
,
by the Fourth Amendment
;
and due process of law
,
by the Fifth Amendment.
Colons
7.
A colon (:) is used to introduce a list, as well as introducing a quotation, explanation, or example.
8.
Use a colon after an independent clause to introduce a list of items.
Please go to the store and pick up the following items
:
milk, eggs, bread, and flour.
NOTE: Do NOT use a colon after a verb.
Please go to the store and buy milk, eggs, bread, and flour.
9.
Other uses of the colon:
 Use a colon between two independent clauses when the second explains or elaborates the first.
 Use a colon to introduce a long or formal quotation
 Use a colon after the salutation of a business letter
 Use a colon between the hour and minute when telling time, and when referencing religious works.