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.

Front

Which conjunctions can be used with a semicolon?

Back

Conjunctions like 'however', 'therefore', and 'moreover' can be used after a semicolon to connect related ideas.

Front

Which conjunction should NOT be used with a semicolon?

Back

The conjunction 'but' should not be used with a semicolon; instead, a comma is used.

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

Provide an example of a correct semicolon usage.

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a comma?

Back

A semicolon connects two independent clauses, while a comma is used to separate items in a list or to connect clauses with a conjunction.

Front

Can a semicolon be used in a list?

Back

Yes, a semicolon can be used in a list when the items in the list contain commas, to avoid confusion.

Front

What punctuation should be used before 'however' when it connects two independent clauses?

Back

A semicolon should be used before 'however' when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

Is a semicolon used before 'and' or 'but'?

Back

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