When using the words furthermore therefore when do you use a semicolon?

You don't use a semicolon with "furthermore" or "therefore". These words are conjunctions, and conjunctions generally require a comma before them when joining two independent clauses. Here's how to use them:

Example:

* Incorrect: The weather was terrible; furthermore, the traffic was horrendous.

* Correct: The weather was terrible, furthermore, the traffic was horrendous.

Why it's incorrect:

* A semicolon is used to separate two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning.

* "Furthermore" and "therefore" are conjunctive adverbs that introduce a clause that depends on the previous one for meaning.

Here are some other ways to use "furthermore" and "therefore" correctly:

* With a comma: "The meeting was cancelled, furthermore, the deadline was extended."

* With a period: "The meeting was cancelled. Furthermore, the deadline was extended."

* At the beginning of a sentence: "Furthermore, the deadline was extended."

* At the beginning of a sentence with a colon: "Furthermore: the deadline was extended."

Remember that using a semicolon incorrectly can make your writing unclear and confusing. Always double-check your punctuation to ensure it's correct.