Just curious, when do you use semicolon(;) and how does it function?

Rebecca

You use a semicolon with two independent clauses, clauses that can stand alone without the other and in place of a coordinating conjunction. But the two clauses should be closely linked in meaning and be equally important. You can also use them in place of commas in a list if the items are longer than a word. They can also be used before transition words like "nevertheless," "therefore," and "however." Ex: We need to get: a purple mug; soft cushion; apple juice. Ex: We were exhausted; nevertheless, we kept going. Ex: The lights were ever so bright; the audience was loud as ever.