Difference Between Semicolon and Colon

Colons (:) are used in sentences to show that something is following, like a quotation, example, or list. Semicolons (;) are used to join two independent clauses, or two complete thoughts that could stand alone as complete sentences.

1. When should I use a colon or semicolon?
2. When should I use a colon?
3. Where should semicolons be used?
4. When should semicolons not be used?
5. How do you use a colon and semicolon examples?
6. What are some examples of semicolons?
7. When should you not use a colon?
8. How do you use a colon example?
9. What is the purpose of a semicolon?
10. Can you use semicolons in a list?
11. What is the proper way to use a semicolon?
12. What does a semicolon tattoo mean?

When should I use a colon or semicolon?

Semicolons should introduce evidence or a reason for the preceding statement; for example, this sentence appropriately uses a semicolon. A colon, on the other hand, should be used for a stronger, more direct relationship. It should provide emphasis, an example, or an explanation.

When should I use a colon?

Colons

1. To announce, introduce, or direct attention to a list, a noun or noun phrase, a quotation, or an example/explanation. You can use a colon to draw attention to many things in your writing. ...
2. To join sentences. ...
3. To express time, in titles, and as part of other writing conventions.

Where should semicolons be used?

Using Semicolons

• A semicolon is most commonly used to link (in a single sentence) two independent clauses that are closely related in thought. ...
• Use a semicolon between two independent clauses that are connected by conjunctive adverbs or transitional phrases.

When should semicolons not be used?

Do not use a semicolon when a dependent clause comes before an independent clause. As we have stated above, semicolons can be used to join two complete sentences. Since a dependent clause does not express a complete thought, it is not a complete sentence and cannot be joined to your independent clause by a semicolon.

How do you use a colon and semicolon examples?

Semicolons represent two closely linked independent clauses. If one or both of the clauses isn't complete, consider using a colon instead. Dad is going bald; his hair is getting thinner and thinner. You should stop eating so much food; you will have to go on a diet.

What are some examples of semicolons?

Examples of Semicolons: Joan likes eggs; Jennifer does not. The cat slept through the storm; the dog cowered under the bed. Semicolons are also used in a sentence when something stronger than a comma is needed.

When should you not use a colon?

Do not use a colon in a complete sentence after phrases such as "such as," "including," and "for example." Because phrases like these already indicate to the reader that a list of examples will follow, there is no need to introduce them with a colon, which would merely be redundant.

How do you use a colon example?

A colon instead of a semicolon may be used between independent clauses when the second sentence explains, illustrates, paraphrases, or expands on the first sentence. Example: He got what he worked for: he really earned that promotion.
...
Examples:

1. input data.
2. write reports.
3. complete tax forms.

What is the purpose of a semicolon?

A semicolon has two general uses: to clarify a series and to indicate two closely related sentences. Series—If one or more elements in a series contain a comma, use semicolons to separate them. Include a semicolon before the final conjunction.

Can you use semicolons in a list?

It is usual to use commas to separate the items in a list. However, when the list items themselves contain commas, you can "outrank" those commas by using semicolons as the separators for your list items.

What is the proper way to use a semicolon?

Rule. Use a semicolon between closely related independent clauses which are not joined by a coordinating conjunction. This rule means that semicolons are used between two complete sentences which are not already linked by words like and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet.

What does a semicolon tattoo mean?

“A semicolon is used when an author could've chosen to end their sentence, but chose not to. The author is you, and the sentence is your life,” explains Project Semicolon's website. ... And that's exactly what the semicolon tattoo is working to change—the stigma around suicide.