Colons & Semicolons

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon should be used before a list, before a quote, or to separate two independent clauses when the second explains or illustrates the first.

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

A semicolon should be used to link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, or to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

Example of a sentence using a colon.

Back

I have three favorite fruits: apples, bananas, and oranges.

Front

Example of a sentence using a semicolon.

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces or emphasizes information, while a semicolon connects related independent clauses.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with 'however'?

Back

Use a semicolon before 'however' and a comma after it when connecting two independent clauses.

Front

Correctly punctuate: 'I enjoy reading I also like writing.'

Back

I enjoy reading; I also like writing.

Front

Correctly punctuate: 'She has many hobbies painting, drawing, and sculpting.'

Back

She has many hobbies: painting, drawing, and sculpting.