Etymology:
The word "semicolon" comes from two Latin words:
Meaning:
A semicolon is a punctuation mark that indicates a pause stronger than a comma but weaker than a period. It is used to connect two closely related independent clauses, or to separate items in a series when commas are already used within the items.
Origin:
The use of a semicolon to indicate a pause can be traced back to ancient Greek, where a "hypodiastole" (a mark resembling a forward slash) was used for this purpose.
In the 16th century, the humanist scholar Aldus Manutius introduced the semicolon to Venetian printers. It was adopted in English printing by the late 16th century and became widely used by the 18th century.
Usage:
Semicolons are typically used in the following situations:
To connect two independent clauses that are closely related but distinct:
Example: I walked to the store; it was closed.
To separate items in a series when commas are already used within the items:
Example: The colors I chose were red, blue, green; yellow; and orange.
To indicate a pause or change of thought within a sentence:
Example: I had a wonderful time at the party; however, I left early.
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