Colons & Semicolons

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

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

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

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

Front

Provide an example of a semicolon connecting two independent clauses.

Back

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

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon should be used before a list, before a quote, or to separate two independent clauses when the second clause explains or elaborates on the first.

Front

Provide an example of a colon introducing a list.

Back

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

Front

What is a run-on sentence?

Back

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

Front

How can a semicolon correct a run-on sentence?

Back

A semicolon can correct a run-on sentence by separating the independent clauses, making the sentence grammatically correct.

Front

Provide an example of a run-on sentence corrected with a semicolon.

Back

Run-on: "I love to read I have many books." Corrected: "I love to read; I have many books."

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

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