Here's why:
* Semicolons are used to separate independent clauses. An independent clause is a complete sentence that can stand alone. "Getting" is part of a phrase, not a complete sentence.
* Semicolons can be used to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas. This is less likely in the case of "getting."
Example of a semicolon used correctly:
* "I went to the store; I needed milk."
Example of how "getting" might be used with a semicolon:
* "We were tired of the same old routine; getting a new hobby seemed like a good idea."
In this example, "getting a new hobby seemed like a good idea" is the independent clause that follows the semicolon.
If you're unsure about semicolon placement, it's always best to consult a grammar guide or ask a trusted writing resource.