Punctuation: Colons, Ellipses, Hyphens

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

Use a colon before a list, after a greeting in a formal letter, or before an explanation.

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of a colon.

Back

There are three things I need: a pen, a notebook, and a ruler.

Front

What is a hyphen?

Back

A punctuation mark (-) used to join words or parts of words.

Front

When should you use a hyphen?

Back

Use a hyphen to connect compound adjectives or to separate syllables of a single word.

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of a hyphen.

Back

The well-dressed man entered the room.

Front

What is an ellipsis?

Back

A series of three dots (...) indicating the omission of words or a pause in speech.

Front

When should you use an ellipsis?

Back

Use an ellipsis to show that something has been left out or to create suspense.

Front

Provide an example of a correct use of an ellipsis.

Back

"I can't believe... you did that," she said.

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

A colon introduces lists or explanations, while a semicolon connects closely related independent clauses.