Commas (,)
* Joining independent clauses with a conjunction: They connect two complete sentences that are joined by conjunctions like "and", "but", "or", "so", "yet", "for", "nor".
* Example: *The cat sat on the mat, and the dog barked at the door.*
* Separating items in a list: Commas are used to separate items in a list, especially when there are three or more items.
* Example: *She bought apples, bananas, and oranges.*
* Setting off introductory phrases or clauses: Commas are used after introductory phrases or clauses that precede the main clause.
* Example: *After the long hike, we were exhausted.*
* Setting off non-essential clauses or phrases: Commas are used to set off information that is not essential to the meaning of the sentence.
* Example: *My sister, who lives in California, is coming to visit.*
Semicolons (;)
* Joining independent clauses without a conjunction: Semicolons can connect two closely related complete sentences without a conjunction.
* Example: *The storm raged; the lights went out.*
* Separating items in a list that already contain commas: When a list contains items that already include commas (like a list of cities with their states), semicolons can help to clarify the separation.
* Example: *We visited San Francisco, California; Seattle, Washington; and Portland, Oregon.*
In summary:
* Commas are used to separate items within sentences, while semicolons are used to connect closely related independent clauses.
* Commas are often used with conjunctions, while semicolons are used without conjunctions.
It's important to note that the rules governing comma and semicolon usage can be complex. If you're unsure about how to use them correctly, consult a style guide or grammar reference book.