P3-a: Semicolon with independent clause

P3-aUse a semicolon between closely related independent clauses.

Between independent clauses with no coordinating conjunction

When two independent clauses appear in one sentence, they are usually linked with a comma and a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet). If the clauses are closely related and the relation is clear without a conjunction, they may be linked with a semicolon instead.

In film, a low-angle shot makes the subject look powerful; a high-angle shot does just the opposite.

A semicolon must be used whenever a coordinating conjunction has been omitted between independent clauses. To use merely a comma creates a type of run-on sentence known as a comma splice. (See G6.)

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Between independent clauses linked with a transitional expression

Transitional expressions include conjunctive adverbs and transitional phrases.

conjunctive adverbs

accordingly furthermore moreover still
also hence nevertheless subsequently
anyway however next then
besides incidentally nonetheless therefore
certainly indeed now thus
consequently instead otherwise
conversely likewise similarly
finally meanwhile specifically

transitional phrases

after all at the same time in addition in the first place
as a matter of fact even so in conclusion on the contrary
as a result for example in fact on the other hand
at any rate for instance in other words

When a transitional expression appears between independent clauses, it is preceded by a semicolon and usually followed by a comma.

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When a transitional expression appears in the middle or at the end of the second independent clause, the semicolon goes between the clauses.

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Transitional expressions should not be confused with the coordinating conjunctions and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet, which are preceded by a comma when they link independent clauses. (See P1-a.)