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

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

Provide an example of a semicolon connecting two independent clauses.

Back

Example: "I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight."

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a comma?

Back

A semicolon connects two independent clauses, while a comma is used to separate items in a list or to join clauses with a conjunction.

Front

Can a semicolon be used before a conjunction?

Back

No, a semicolon should not be used before a conjunction like 'and' or 'but'.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.

Front

Is this sentence correct? "He doesn't like living near the beach; the salty air is making his car rust."

Back

Yes, this sentence is correct because it uses a semicolon to connect two related independent clauses.

Front

Where should the semicolon go in this sentence: "I have a big test tomorrow I can't go out tonight."?

Back

The semicolon should go between 'tomorrow' and 'I': "I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight."

Front

What punctuation mark can replace a semicolon in some cases?

Back

A period can replace a semicolon if you want to separate the two independent clauses into two sentences.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that incorrectly uses a semicolon.

Back

Incorrect: "I like pizza; and I enjoy pasta." (The semicolon should be a comma.)