Semicolons ( ; )

 

 

A semicolon calls for more of a pause than a comma.  A semicolon is used to connect independent clauses and show a closer relationship than a period does.  They are often used when a pronoun starts the second clause to clarify which nouns the pronoun relates to.

 

Examples:

 

There isn’t a minute to lose; let’s get out of here.

 

Nancy couldn't figure out the answer; it was driving her crazy.