Dashes, Colons, and Semicolons

Front

What is a dash (—) used for in a sentence?

Back

A dash is used to create a strong break in the structure of a sentence, often to set off additional information or an explanation.

Front

What is a colon (:) used for in a sentence?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation that follows.

Front

What is a semicolon (;) used for in a sentence?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a dash.

Back

I have a big test tomorrow—I'm so nervous!

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a colon.

Back

You need the following ingredients: flour, sugar, eggs, and butter.

Front

Provide an 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 information that elaborates or lists, while a semicolon connects two related independent clauses.

Front

When should you use a dash instead of a comma?

Back

Use a dash when you want to create a stronger break or emphasize the information that follows.

Front

What punctuation mark would you use to separate items in a list that already contains commas?

Back

Use a semicolon to separate items in a complex list.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence that has a transitional phrase?

Back

Use a semicolon before the transitional phrase and a comma after it.