Semicolons and Conjunctive Adverbs

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

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, or to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

What is a conjunctive adverb?

Back

A conjunctive adverb is a word that connects two independent clauses and shows the relationship between them, such as 'however', 'therefore', 'meanwhile', and 'additionally'.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with a conjunctive adverb?

Back

When using a conjunctive adverb to connect two independent clauses, place a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb and a comma after it.

Front

Example of a semicolon connecting two independent clauses.

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a semicolon?

Back

A comma is used to separate items in a list or to connect clauses with a coordinating conjunction, while a semicolon connects closely related independent clauses without a conjunction.

Front

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

Back

I love reading; I also enjoy writing.

Front

Identify the error: 'She loves pizza; but she is allergic to cheese.'

Back

The semicolon is incorrectly used before 'but'; it should be a comma.

Front

What is the correct use of a semicolon in a list?

Back

Use semicolons to separate items in a list when the items contain commas. Example: 'On our trip, we visited Paris, France; Rome, Italy; and Berlin, Germany.'

Front

Correctly punctuate: 'He studied hard he wanted to pass the exam.'

Back

He studied hard; he wanted to pass the exam.