Semicolons and Colons

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

A colon (:) is used to introduce a list, a quote, an explanation, or to separate two independent clauses when the second explains or illustrates the first.

Front

Provide an example of using a semicolon correctly.

Back

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

Front

Provide an example of using a colon correctly.

Back

Example: You need the following items: bread, milk, and eggs.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

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

Front

Can a semicolon be used in a list?

Back

Yes, semicolons can be used to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

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

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence with two independent clauses?

Back

You can use a semicolon, a comma with a coordinating conjunction, or a period.

Front

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) connects words, phrases, or independent clauses.