Semicolons

Front

What does a semicolon look like?

Back

; (semicolon)

Front

How do you correctly use a semicolon in a sentence?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related. Example: "I like tea; my sister prefers coffee."

Front

Where should a semicolon be placed in this sentence? Spring brings gentle rains and warmer weather in addition, there are thunderstorms and hail.

Back

The semicolon should be placed before 'in': "Spring brings gentle rains and warmer weather; in addition, there are thunderstorms and hail."

Front

Which sentence uses punctuation correctly? For the field trip I packed a lot stuff. / For the field trip; I packed a lot stuff. / For the field trip, I packed a lot stuff. / For the field trip I packed a lot stuff;

Back

For the field trip, I packed a lot of stuff.

Front

How do you change this sentence to correctly use a semicolon? There were five doughnuts left this morning, but now there are none.

Back

There were five doughnuts left this morning; now there are none.

Front

What is the purpose of a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon is used to link closely related independent clauses and to separate items in a complex list.

Front

Can a semicolon be used before conjunctions?

Back

No, a semicolon should not be used before conjunctions like 'and', 'but', or 'or'. It is used to connect independent clauses without conjunctions.

Front

What is an example of a sentence using a semicolon correctly?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon (;) connects related independent clauses, while a colon (:) introduces a list, explanation, or quote.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a period?

Back

Use a semicolon instead of a period when you want to connect two related independent clauses without using a conjunction.