semicolon
sem-ee-KOH-lun
Semicolon (noun) means the punctuation mark (;) used to link closely related clauses, or to separate list items that already contain commas. Example: “She joined the two sentences with a semicolon.”
noun
1
The punctuation mark (;) used to link closely related clauses, or to separate list items that already contain commas.
"She joined the two sentences with a semicolon."
"Use a semicolon between list items that contain commas."
"He added a semicolon where the comma had been."
How to use semicolon
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA semicolon is the punctuation mark ; which joins related parts of a sentence.
When to use it
It is a neutral word, used in writing guidance and everyday talk about punctuation.
Memory tip
The hyphenated spelling semi-colon is marked as dated, so prefer semicolon.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
use a semicolon
insert a semicolon
semicolon or comma
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She joined the two sentences with a _____.
Etymology
The word joins the prefix semi-, meaning 'half', to colon. The mark looks like a colon with its lower dot replaced by a comma.
Rhymes for semicolon
See all rhymes for semicolon →Frequently asked questions
When do you use a semicolon?
You use it to separate two related sentences, a series of related clauses, or list items that themselves contain commas.
What is the plural of semicolon?
The usual plural is semicolons. Semicola is also recorded but is uncommon.
Why is it called a semicolon?
It combines 'semi', meaning half, with colon. The mark is a colon with its lower half replaced by a comma.
What is the meaning of semicolon?
"semicolon" (noun) means the punctuation mark (;) used to link closely related clauses, or to separate list items that already contain commas.
