Semicolons

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

You should use a semicolon to join two related independent clauses.

Front

Which of the following is a correct use of a semicolon?

Back

The man was wet; he was standing in the rain without an umbrella.

Front

Is this a semicolon: ; ?

Back

Yes, that is a semicolon.

Front

Is this a semicolon: , ?

Back

No, that is a comma.

Front

Can a semicolon be used before conjunctions?

Back

No, semicolons are not used before conjunctions like 'and' or 'but'.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects related independent clauses, while a colon introduces a list, explanation, or quote.

Front

Can you use a semicolon in a list?

Back

Yes, use semicolons to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

What punctuation mark can replace a semicolon?

Back

A period can replace a semicolon to separate two independent clauses.

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'I like pizza; I don't like pasta.'

Back

Yes, that sentence correctly uses a semicolon to connect two related independent clauses.