Colons, semicolons, and commas flashcard

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 a semicolon be used?

Back

A semicolon should be used to link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, or to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon should be used before a list, before a quote, or to introduce an explanation or elaboration.

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma (,) is a punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should a comma be used?

Back

A comma should be used to separate items in a list, before conjunctions in compound sentences, after introductory phrases, and to set off non-essential information.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects two independent clauses, while a colon introduces a list or explanation.

Front

Can a semicolon be used before conjunctions?

Back

No, a semicolon should not be used before conjunctions like 'and' or 'but'; instead, a comma is used.

Front

What punctuation is used to separate independent clauses?

Back

A semicolon (;) is used to separate independent clauses when they are closely related.

Front

What punctuation is used to introduce a list?

Back

A colon (:) is used to introduce a list.