semicolon

[ˌsɛmɪˈkəʊlən]

semicolon Definition

a punctuation mark (;) indicating a pause, typically between two main clauses, that is more pronounced than that indicated by a comma.

Using semicolon: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "semicolon" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I have a lot of work to do; I don't have time for this.

  • Example

    She was always late; it drove me crazy.

  • Example

    He's a great athlete; he's also a brilliant student.

semicolon Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for semicolon

  • punctuation mark
  • comma and colon

Phrases with semicolon

  • the overuse of semicolons in writing, often resulting in awkward or unclear sentences

    Example

    His writing was plagued by semicolon cancer, making it difficult to read and understand.

  • a tattoo of a semicolon used as a symbol of solidarity and support for those struggling with mental illness or suicide

    Example

    She got a semicolon tattoo on her wrist to remind herself of her own strength and resilience.

  • a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, often associated with the semicolon tattoo

    Example

    The Semicolon Project has helped thousands of people find hope and healing in the face of mental illness and suicidal thoughts.

Origins of semicolon

from Greek 'hemikolon', meaning 'half a member of a sentence'

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Summary: semicolon in Brief

A 'semicolon' [ˌsɛmɪˈkəʊlən] is a punctuation mark (;) used to indicate a pause between two main clauses that is more pronounced than that indicated by a comma. It is often used to connect related ideas or to separate items in a list. The term 'semicolon' is derived from the Greek 'hemikolon,' meaning 'half a member of a sentence.'