colon or semicolon

Front

What is a colon?

Back

A punctuation mark (:) used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A punctuation mark (;) used to connect closely related independent clauses.

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

Use a colon before a list, a quote, or to explain something that follows.

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

Use a semicolon to link two independent clauses that are closely related.

Front

Example of a sentence using a colon.

Back

I have three pets: a dog, a cat, and a rabbit.

Front

Example of a sentence using a semicolon.

Back

I wanted to go for a walk; it was raining outside.

Front

What is the rule for using colons with lists?

Back

Use a colon before a list only if the list follows a complete sentence.

Front

What is the rule for using semicolons with independent clauses?

Back

Use a semicolon to separate two independent clauses that are not joined by a conjunction.

Front

Can you use a colon after a verb?

Back

No, you should not use a colon after a verb.

Front

Can you use a semicolon before a conjunction?

Back

No, a semicolon should not be used before a conjunction.