Use Semicolons Correctly

Use a semicolon instead of a coordinate conjunction such as and, or, or but to link two closely related independent clauses.

• INCORRECT: Whooping cranes are an endangered species; and they are unlikely to survive if we continue to pollute.
• CORRECT: Whooping cranes are an endangered species, and they are unlikely to survive if we continue to pollute.

Use a semicolon between independent clauses connected by words like therefore, nevertheless, and moreover.

• CORRECT: The staff meeting has been postponed until next Thursday; therefore, I will be unable to get approval for my project until then.
• CORRECT: Morgan has five years' experience in karate, but Tyler has even more.