Colons & Semicolons

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

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

Use a colon to introduce a list, a quote, or to emphasize a point.

Front

When should you use a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

Example of a correct use of a colon.

Back

She has three favorite fruits: apples, bananas, and oranges.

Front

Example of a correct use of a semicolon.

Back

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

Front

What is a run-on sentence?

Back

A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without appropriate punctuation.

Front

How can you fix a run-on sentence?

Back

You can fix a run-on sentence by adding a semicolon, a period, or a conjunction.

Front

What is the difference between a colon and a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

Correct this run-on sentence: 'I love to read I have many books.'

Back

I love to read; I have many books.