Mastering Semicolon Usage in English

This video tutorial covers the use of semicolons in English grammar. It explains three main rules: semicolons separate two complete sentences, the word after a semicolon should not be capitalized unless it's a proper noun, and semicolons should not be used with fanboys conjunctions. The video provides examples to illustrate correct and incorrect usage, and concludes with a brief mention of using semicolons in lists with internal commas.

What is the primary function of a semicolon?

• To end a sentence

• To link two related independent clauses

• To separate items in a list

• To introduce a quote

Which of the following is NOT a rule for using semicolons?

• The word after a semicolon should not be capitalized unless it's a proper noun

• Semicolons can replace periods between related sentences

• Semicolons can be used with fanboys conjunctions

• Semicolons link two complete sentences

In the sentence 'I like ketchup; but I’m not a fan of mustard,' what is the error?

• The word 'but' should be capitalized

• A period should replace the semicolon

• A semicolon should not be used with 'but'

• The sentence is correct

What should you do if you have two sentences that are about very different things?

• Use a comma

• Use a semicolon

• Use a colon

• Use a period

When should you capitalize the word after a semicolon?

• Only if it’s the start of a new sentence

• Always

• Never

• Only if it’s a proper noun

What is a fanboys conjunction?

• A coordinating conjunction

• A dependent clause

• A proper noun

• A type of punctuation

Why is the semicolon incorrect in the sentence 'My name is Karen; not Katie'?

• Because 'Karen' should be lowercase

• Because a period should be used instead

• Because 'not' should be capitalized

• Because 'not Katie' is not a complete sentence

Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

• I like apples; and oranges.

• My brother is tall; he plays basketball.

• She loves to read; her favorite book is 'Pride and Prejudice'.

• He went to the store; but forgot to buy milk.

In the sentence 'Today is Tuesday; tomorrow will be Wednesday,' why is the semicolon used correctly?

• Because it separates two unrelated sentences

• Because 'tomorrow' is capitalized

• Because there are no fanboys conjunctions

• Because 'tomorrow' is a proper noun

What is another use of semicolons mentioned in the video?

• To end a sentence

• To introduce a quote

• To link a dependent clause

• To separate items in a list with commas