A semicolon (;) is used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning. "And" is a conjunction that joins words, phrases, or clauses.
Here are the correct ways to use semicolons and "and":
* Semicolon followed by a conjunction: You can use a semicolon followed by a conjunction (like "and", "but", "or", "so") to connect two independent clauses. This is often done for emphasis or to create a smoother flow.
* Example: _The sky was clear; and the stars were bright._
* Semicolon without a conjunction: You can also use a semicolon without a conjunction to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning.
* Example: _The birds were singing; the flowers were blooming._
Incorrect usage:
* _The sun was shining; and the birds were singing._ (Incorrect)
Instead, you could use:
* _The sun was shining, and the birds were singing._
* _The sun was shining; the birds were singing._