Using semicolons before transitional phrases (e.g. however)

A transitional phrase (e.g., however, as a result, consequently) will usually start a new sentence. However, if you would like a smoother transition between the first sentence and the one starting with the transitional phrase, you can use a semicolon before the transitional phrase. You cannot use a comma.

Semicolon before a Transitional Phrase

This point is closely related to the lesson Extending a Sentence with a Semicolon as it concerns merging two sentences to form one. However, in these examples, there is a short bridge between the first half and the second half of the sentence. The bridge is known as a transitional phrase. There is always a comma after a transitional phrase but not before.

A transitional phrase will usually start a new sentence, but if you would like a smoother transition than that afforded by a full stop / period, you can use a semicolon before a transitional phrase to merge the new sentence with the previous one.

Examples (transitional phrases shown in bold):

Everyone knows he is guilty; of course, it will never be proved.

of course

Sarah's guest was turned away by the doorman; as a result, she left before the presentations.

as a result

Business is booming; for example, Siemens has made 10 orders since 4 o'clock.

for example

I missed the early plane; however, I still made the meeting.

however

The paper is stuck in the lift; consequently, we cannot finish the printing.

consequently

She does not loathe chess, on the contrary, she quite likes it.

on the contrary

My security guards are not trained in fire-fighting; therefore, we paged the fire service.

START A NEW SENTENCE NINE TIMES OUT OF TEN

Transitional phrases are common. Most of the time, a transitional phrase will start a new sentence. However, you can use a semicolon if you wish a smoother transition. You should not do this too often.

DEFINITELY NOT A COMMA

You cannot merge two sentences with a comma. This is a very common mistake.

It is extremely foggy, nevertheless, the game will be played.

MAIN CULPRIT IS HOWEVER

The error described above is called a comma fault or run-on error. This error is most commonly seen with the word however.

I am leaving now, however, I will be back on Wednesday to collect my wages.
I am leaving now; however, I will be back on Wednesday to collect my wages.
I am leaving now. However, I will be back on Wednesday to collect my wages.

COMMA AFTER SO

When the word so is used to mean therefore, it is a transitional phrase and should be followed by a comma.

We are not in a position to fund the changes. So, the current system will remain until at least April when it will be reviewed again.

Punctuation

Parts of Speech

Confused Words

Common Mistakes

Semicolon before a Transitional Phrase

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